Europe

French President Emmanuel Macron condemned recent riots and looting across major cities, asserting that those responsible for the unrest will be held accountable. He urged politicians to reject violence and highlighted the distinction between peaceful protests and chaotic actions amid heightened tensions ahead of next year’s presidential election.

Pope Leo XIV led the Angelus prayer in St Peter’s Square on Sunday, following his discharge from hospital after lung surgery for a pulmonary adenocarcinoma. The Pontiff expressed gratitude to supporters and doctors, indicating he will gradually resume activities, including a planned trip to Latin America in November.

Several political stories dominate the bloc’s news today. The ongoing crisis facing the French government leads most websites. France is grappling with a mounting fiscal crisis, with government debt levels and budgetary constraints pushing the country into uncharted territory. PM Michel Barnier’s choice to force through the budget was always going to be an issue, and amid the turmoil far-right leader Marine Le Pen has emerged as a key figure capable of stabilising the political landscape.

France’s financial struggles carry significant implications for the EU. France’s inability to adhere to fiscal targets undermines broader EU economic stability.

The results of Ireland’s snap general election are expected to be tight as counting continues and no clear winner has emerged. 

Georgia is in its fourth night of protesting as the country finds itself at a crossroads. The government’s push for a “Brexit-like” mandate clashes with growing demands from a minority faction advocating for closer ties with the European Union.

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