US, S.Korea kick off largest drills in five years

13 Sept 13:34 Key points summarised by AI

The United States and South Korea commenced their largest joint military exercises in five years, dubbed "Freedom Shield," in response to North Korea's escalating aggression.
North Korea vehemently condemned the drills as a "declaration of war," concurrently launching two "strategic cruise missiles" from a submarine.
The 10-day exercises aim to strengthen defense cooperation and reflect a practical shift in Washington's approach, acknowledging North Korea's "irreversible" nuclear status.
Experts anticipate North Korea will likely conduct further missile launches and acts of intimidation, leveraging the drills as justification for its continued weapons development.

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

Yesterday 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.