France rocked by nationwide clashes, blazes and looting
Macron condemns those who 'sought to bring down the Republic' after rioting mars nationwide protests
Fresh clashes in south China as authorities warn of 'crackdown'
AI In-Brief
Thailand News in Brief
Thai PBS World
Thailand and the world, every day
AI can make mistakes. Please double-check.
Fresh clashes in south China as authorities warn of 'crackdown'
15 Sept 02:06Key points summarised by AI
Nationwide Unrest Escalates: Protests against China's stringent zero-Covid policies have escalated into widespread demonstrations across major cities, with fresh clashes reported in Guangzhou and demands for political freedoms emerging.
Authorities Vow "Crackdown": China's top security body issued a stern warning, promising a "crackdown" on "hostile forces" and "illegal criminal acts" to restore social order, indicating a severe response to the unrest.
Political Demands & Global Attention: Demonstrations have broadened to include calls for political reforms and even President Xi Jinping's resignation, drawing significant international attention and calls for supporting the right to peaceful protest.
Zero-Covid Policy Under Review: Amidst the protests, there are subtle signs that central authorities may be considering adjustments to the rigid zero-Covid policy, particularly by accelerating vaccination rates among the elderly.
Macron condemns those who 'sought to bring down the Republic' after rioting mars nationwide protests
Today 12:56Key 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.