Trump sparks trade war with sweeping global tariffs

10 Sept 20:10 Key points summarised by AI

US President Donald Trump initiated a global trade war by imposing 10% tariffs on worldwide imports and significantly higher levies on major trading partners like China (34%), the European Union (20%), and Japan (24%).
Trump declared the tariffs an act of "economic independence" and "Liberation Day," aiming to restore the US economy to a "Golden Age" and counter what he described as decades of exploitation by other nations.
The announcement triggered immediate anger and threats of retaliation from international allies, including Australia and the EU, while causing significant volatility in global stock markets.
The tariffs, a long-held policy by Trump, reinforce fears of the US moving away from allies towards a vision of American supremacy, with the US Treasury warning against any retaliatory measures.

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.