Ukraine calls Russia UN presidency a 'slap in the face'

23 Sept 03:41 Key points summarised by AI

Ukraine, backed by the U.S. and Baltic states, vehemently condemned Russia's assumption of the UN Security Council presidency for April, with Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba calling it a "slap in the face" to the international community amidst its ongoing invasion.
Concerns mount that Russia will exploit its procedural control over the council's agenda to advance its own narratives and spread disinformation, potentially undermining the body's credibility, especially on the anniversary of the Bucha massacre.
While Russia will manage the council's agenda, its influence on substantive decisions remains limited, though international diplomats have pledged to actively counter any abuse of its presidential role.
Despite widespread outrage, the U.S. acknowledged that no feasible international legal pathway currently exists to remove Russia as a permanent member of the Security Council, rendering the presidency largely ceremonial but symbolically significant.

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.