How real are Putin's nuclear threats in Ukraine?

13 Sept 07:21 Key points summarised by AI

President Putin's nuclear threats are a direct response to Russian military setbacks in Ukraine and his intention to annex occupied territories, aiming to deter further Ukrainian advances and Western support.
Russia possesses a substantial nuclear arsenal, including tactical weapons designed for battlefield use, which, if deployed, would cause significant contamination and unprecedented political and escalatory consequences.
While Western leaders largely dismiss these threats as brinkmanship, some analysts caution against underestimating Putin's resolve, suggesting he seeks to deter advanced Western military aid to Ukraine.
The use of any nuclear weapon would mark a catastrophic global event, risking rapid escalation to a broader conflict despite claims from Russian officials that NATO would not retaliate.

Macron condemns those who 'sought to bring down the Republic' after rioting mars nationwide protests

Today 12:56 Key points summarised by AI

President Macron condemned widespread rioting and looting during nationwide protests, blaming far-left activists and criminals for the "unrestrained violence" and vowing accountability for those who "sought to bring down the Republic."
Over 2,400 arrests were made as protests against rising living costs and poor school conditions escalated, causing extensive damage to public buildings and businesses in cities like Paris, Limoges (where City Hall burned), Marseille, and Lyon.
The unrest, which organizers hoped would revive the "yellow vest" movement, saw political leaders trade blame, with Macron instructing prefects to protect public buildings and potentially ban future protests to prevent further disorder.