South Korea's Yoon heads to US ahead of Biden summit

13 Sept 11:51 Key points summarised by AI

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol begins a six-day state visit to Washington to strengthen military cooperation with the US in response to North Korea's escalating nuclear threats.
A key agenda item is a summit with US President Joe Biden, celebrating 70 years of alliance while addressing South Korean public anxieties about US 'extended deterrence' and the potential for Seoul to develop its own nuclear weapons.
Discussions will also likely include US pressure on South Korea to increase support for Ukraine and navigating Seoul's complex diplomatic relations with China and Russia.
Yoon's trip comes amidst domestic challenges, including declining approval ratings and public concern over a recent US intelligence leak that appeared to involve spying on Seoul.

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.