Trump brands Zelensky a 'dictator' in bitter clash

14 Sept 18:01 Key points summarised by AI

Former US President Donald Trump labeled Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky a "dictator," criticizing his decision to forgo elections under martial law and asserting his administration's unique ability to negotiate an end to the conflict with Russia.
Trump's sharp rhetoric and abrupt policy shift, which included repeating Kremlin narratives, sparked widespread condemnation from European leaders like German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and former US Vice President Mike Pence, who refuted claims that Ukraine initiated the war.
Zelensky vehemently denied Trump's accusations, attributing them to Russian "disinformation" and accusing the new US administration of aiding Russian President Putin's emergence from isolation, while still expressing a desire for constructive engagement with the US.
Moscow welcomed Trump's statements and the recent US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia, which notably excluded Kyiv, signaling a potential shift in the international diplomatic landscape regarding the ongoing conflict.

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.