Category: Western Europe
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EU Set to Vote on Historic Trade Deal with Mercosur Amid Farmer Safeguards

Local sources from France: Touteleurope.eu, Ouest-France. UK coverage: BBC. The European Union is on the brink of a groundbreaking decision as it prepares to vote on a major trade agreement with the South American Mercosur bloc, which includes Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. This pivotal deal, aimed at creating a…
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EU Set to Vote on Major Trade Deal with Mercosur Amidst Controversy and Promises of Protection for European Farmers

Local sources from France: Touteleurope.eu, Le Figaro. UK coverage: BBC. The European Union is on the cusp of a landmark decision as it prepares to vote on a significant trade deal with the Mercosur bloc, which includes Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. This agreement, aimed at creating potentially the world’s…
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Belgium Moves to Recognize Palestine and Sanction Israel Amid International Tensions

Local sources from Belgium: VRT, Nieuwsblad. UK coverage: politico.eu. In a significant shift in its foreign policy, Belgium has announced plans to recognize the state of Palestine and impose sanctions on Israel, marking a pivotal moment in international relations. This development stems from Belgium’s intention to encourage the Israeli government…
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A Harrowing Journey: The Complexities and Tragedies Surrounding Assisted Suicide

Local sources from Switzerland: Schweizer Radio und Fernsehen, Aargauer Zeitung. UK coverage: The Mirror. In recent weeks, the topic of assisted suicide has once again emerged at the forefront of public discourse, fueled by heart-wrenching stories of families torn apart by their loved ones’ decisions to end their lives through…
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France and NATO Brace for Potential High-Intensity Conflict in Europe

Local sources from France: Ouest-France, Le Figaro Santé. UK coverage: Daily Mail. Amid escalating geopolitical tensions and the specter of a major European war, French hospitals have been directed by the Ministry of Health to gear up for a scenario that could see the continent embroiled in widespread conflict by…
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Belgium Takes Bold Steps Towards Palestine Recognition and Sanctions Against Israel

Local sources from Belgium: Nieuwsblad, VRT. UK coverage: Euronews.com. Belgium has made headlines with its consequential decision to move towards recognizing Palestine and imposing targeted sanctions against Israel, marking a significant shift in its foreign policy amidst rising tensions in the Middle East. This bold stance aims to pressure the…
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French Political Crisis: A Test of Governance and Public Patience

Local sources from France: Radio France, France Info. UK coverage: The Telegraph. The French political landscape is currently witnessing a significant tremor with Prime Minister Francois Bayrou at the heart of a potential seismic shift. Amidst a tense budget standoff, Bayrou’s coalition partners, led by Socialist leader Olivier Faure, have…
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Germany Approves Draft Bill for Voluntary Military Service Amid Defense Revamp

Local sources from Germany: WirtschaftsWoche, Bundesministerium der Verteidigung. UK coverage: BBC. In a significant move aimed at bolstering its military forces, the German cabinet has given the green light to a draft bill designed to encourage voluntary military service, with indications that this could lead to a return to conscription…
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Diplomatic Friction: France Summons US Ambassador Over Criticisms on Antisemitism and Stance on Israel

Local sources from France: France Info, Libération. UK coverage: The Guardian. In a move that has escalated diplomatic tensions between France and the United States, France has summoned the US Ambassador to Paris, Charles Kushner, to address criticisms he made regarding President Emmanuel Macron’s efforts against antisemitism and the French…
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Revival of Night Trains in Europe: A Journey Towards Sustainable Travel

Local sources from France: Capital.fr, francebleu.fr. UK coverage: The Guardian. The once fading allure of night train travel across Europe is experiencing a significant revival, propelled by a growing consciousness towards sustainable travel and a collective yearning for more intimate and reflective journeys. This resurgence is not merely a trend…
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Historical Rivalry and Modern Controversy: From Germany’s Bratwurst to Dubai’s Chocolate Delicacy

Local sources from Germany: STERN.de, Business Insider Deutschland. UK coverage: BBC. An enthralling narrative is unfolding as historians delve into the culinary origins of Germany’s beloved Bratwurst, with a new discovery challenging existing records and reigniting regional rivalries. Meanwhile, a contemporary dispute over the production and marketing rights of the…
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France Battles Historic Wildfire amid Rising Concerns Over Climate Change

Local sources from France: Sud Ouest, Le Monde.fr. UK coverage: AOL.co.uk. France is facing an unprecedented challenge as a massive wildfire has devastated over 16,000 hectares in the Aude region, marking the country’s largest fire since 1949. The blaze, which claimed one life and destroyed numerous homes, remains uncontrolled despite…
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Unprecedented Wildfires in France: A Dual Battle Against Flames and Wildlife Catastrophe

Local sources from France: Ouest-France, France 3 Régions. UK coverage: France 24. As France grapples with its largest wildfire since 1949, encompassing over 17,000 hectares in the Aude region, the challenges extend beyond controlling the rampant flames. The disaster has mobilized an impressive force of 2,500 firefighters, supplemented by substantial…
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Georges Abdallah: A Symbol of Resilience and Controversy Freed After 40 Years

Local sources from France: France 24, Revolution Permanente. UK coverage: BBC. In a move that has sparked diverse reactions across the political and international spectrums, Lebanese pro-Palestinian militant Georges Ibrahim Abdallah was released from French custody on July 25, 2025, after serving more than four decades behind bars. Convicted in…
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France’s Bold Move: Recognizing the State of Palestine Amidst International Tensions

Local sources from France: BFMTV, BFMTV. UK coverage: Financial Times. In a series of events that have garnered international attention, France has officially announced its decision to recognize the State of Palestine, a move that has sparked a mix of acclaim and controversy among global leaders. The declaration, made by…
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Controversial Proposal to Eliminate Public Holidays Sparks Debate in France

Local sources from France: BFMTV, europe1.fr. UK coverage: Euronews. In a bold move aimed at reducing France’s public debt, François Bayrou, a prominent political figure, has ignited a firestorm of controversy with his proposal to eliminate two public holidays – Easter Monday and May 8th. The initiative, part of Bayrou’s…
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EU Advocates for Crisis Preparedness with Stockpiles and Emergency Kits Amid Growing Global Instability

Local sources from Belgium: De Standaard, VRT. UK coverage: The Guardian. In a significant move to bolster its crisis response capabilities, the European Commission has proposed a comprehensive strategy to establish stockpiles of essential goods and encourage member states to maintain supplies of critical items such as medicine, generators, water…
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European Court of Human Rights Holds Russia Accountable for MH17 Downing

Local sources from Netherlands: NOS, AD.nl. UK coverage: politico.eu. In a landmark ruling that reverberated around the globe, the European Court of Human Rights has found Russia culpable for the 2014 downing of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing quest for justice for the victims…
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EU’s Migration Management: A Strategic Shift Amid Controversy

Local sources from Belgium: VRT, Amnesty International. UK coverage: The Times of Israel. In a bold move signaling a significant shift in its migration policy strategy, the European Commission has proposed a plan that could reshape the future of international aid and migration control within the European Union. At the…
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EU’s New Migration Control Strategy Faces Scrutiny Amid Human Rights Concerns

Local sources from Belgium: VRT, Amnesty International. UK coverage: politico.eu. In a bold move that marks a significant departure from its existing aid model, the European Commission has proposed a plan to condition financial support to poorer countries on their cooperation in reducing migration to Europe. This plan, championed by…
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Parisian Hero to be Honored for Saving Six from Fiery Blaze

Local sources from France: BFMTV, TF1 Info. UK coverage: Daily Mail. In a daring rescue that gripped the city of Paris, Fousseynou Cissé, a 39-year-old caretaker, emerged as a beacon of bravery amidst the chaos of a devastating fire. The incident, which took place in the 18th district on the…
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Paris Seine River: A Swim Through History and a Pause for Nature

Local sources from France: Actu.fr, TF1 Info. UK coverage: The Guardian. In an unprecedented move that marks a historic milestone for Paris, the Seine River has been reopened to the public for swimming after more than a century-long prohibition. This development, part of a broader initiative to revitalize urban waterways…
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EU Contemplates International Carbon Credits Amidst Climate Target Debates

Local sources from Belgium: ESG News, Nieuwsblad. UK coverage: The Guardian. In a groundbreaking move that has ignited both hope and controversy, the European Union is considering the integration of high-quality international carbon credits towards its ambitious climate targets for 2040. This proposal emerges as the EU aims for a…
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Pope Francis Launches Jubilee Commission to Address Global Debt Crisis

Local sources from Vatican: The Economist, Independent Catholic News. UK coverage: The Economist. In a monumental move addressing the growing sovereign-debt crisis crippling numerous low- and middle-income countries, Pope Francis has established a Jubilee Commission, roping in world-renowned economists such as Joseph Stiglitz, a Nobel laureate, and Martín Guzmán, former…
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International Police Efforts Intensify in Unsolved Cases

Local sources from Germany: HNA, Neue Presse Coburg. UK coverage: Daily Express. In recent developments across Europe, law enforcement agencies have ramped up their efforts in the pursuit of justice in several high-profile cases, highlighting the challenges and complexities of international criminal investigations. Among these, the Madeleine McCann disappearance continues…
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Pope Leo XIV: A New Era of Peace and Reconciliation

Local sources from Vatican: Corsica Oggi, Quotidiano Nazionale. UK coverage: Vatican News. In a world rife with conflicts and divisions, Pope Leo XIV’s recent actions and messages signal a beacon of hope for global peace and reconciliation. On the Solemnity of Pentecost, gathered in the heart of Christianity, St. Peter’s…
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Fatal Police Shooting in Munich After Knife Attack at Theresienwiese

Local sources from Germany: Spiegel, Tagesspiegel. UK coverage: The Sun. In a tragic incident that unfolded on June 7, 2025, at Theresienwiese, Munich – a locale internationally recognized for its annual Oktoberfest celebrations – a 30-year-old woman, reportedly of Bulgarian descent, was fatally shot by police following her knife attack…
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Severe Turbulence Forces Ryanair Flight to Emergency Land in Germany, Injuring Nine

Local sources from Germany: STERN.de, SWR. UK coverage: ITVX. In a harrowing incident caught amidst the ferocity of nature, a Ryanair flight from Berlin to Milan was compelled to make an emergency landing at Memmingen Airport in Germany, following severe turbulence that left nine passengers, including a toddler, injured. The…
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Greenpeace Activists Target Macron’s Wax Figure in Bold Protest Against Franco-Russian Ties

Local sources from France: France Info, France 24. UK coverage: Euronews.com. In an unprecedented series of events that captured both public curiosity and international media attention, activists purporting to belong to the environmental group Greenpeace executed a daring theft, followed by a symbolic protest, to voice their concerns over France’s…
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Germany’s Bold Move: Major Tax Cuts Planned to Revitalize the Economy

Local sources from Germany: Merkur, STERN.de. UK coverage: Financial Times. In a significant shift in fiscal policy, the German government, led by Friedrich Merz, has announced ambitious plans to implement major tax cuts, aiming to breathe new life into the country’s economy. Set to commence in 2025, these tax reductions…
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Tragic Fire at Hamburg Hospital Leads to Deaths, Injuries, and Arson Investigation

Local sources from Germany: NDR, Berliner Morgenpost. UK coverage: Metro.co.uk. A devastating fire swept through the Marienkrankenhaus hospital in Hamburg, Germany, resulting in the deaths of three patients and injuring over 50 individuals, sparking widespread concern and a major emergency response. The blaze, which erupted in the hospital’s geriatric ward…
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Europe Gripped by Severe Drought: Climate Change Intensifies Conditions

Local sources from Germany: Deutschlandfunk, Scinexx. UK coverage: Sky News. Europe is facing an unprecedented drought, with more than 40% of the continent experiencing severe dry conditions, impacting Spain, Greece, Italy, Cyprus, Albania, Poland, and Ukraine, as reported by the EU’s European Drought Observatory. The situation is aggravated by March’s…
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Tragic Car Incident Mars PSG Champions League Victory Celebrations in Grenoble

Local sources from France: Ouest-France, TF1 Info. UK coverage: Daily Mail. In a night marred by football-related celebrations and unrest, a grave incident unfolded in Grenoble, France, casting a shadow over Paris Saint-Germain’s (PSG) triumphant Champions League victory. A car, in a terrifying turn of events, plowed into a group…
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Peruvian Farmer’s Climate Lawsuit Against German Power Giant RWE Dismissed

Local sources from Germany: T-Online, Euronews.com. UK coverage: Financial Times. In a landmark case that garnered international attention, a Peruvian farmer’s legal battle against the German energy conglomerate RWE came to a conclusion as the Higher Regional Court in Hamm, Germany, dismissed the civil lawsuit. The suit sought to hold…
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Bravery Amidst Chaos: Syrian Refugee Hailed as Hero in Hamburg Knife Attack

Local sources from Germany: STERN.de, ZDF. UK coverage: The Guardian. In a commendable act of bravery, Muhammad Al Muhammad, a 19-year-old Syrian refugee, is being celebrated for his courageous intervention during a harrowing knife attack at Hamburg’s main railway station, where a total of 18 individuals sustained injuries. The assailant,…
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Austrian Chancellor Advocates for Comprehensive Reform of EU Asylum Rules

Local sources from Austria: Agenzia Nova, OE24. UK coverage: Financial Times. In a recent series of interviews, Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker has called for a sweeping reform of the European Union’s asylum rules, labeling them as ‘outdated’ and ‘insufficient’ in the face of current challenges. Speaking to both the Financial…
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Speeding Duck Caught on Camera in Swiss Town: A Quacking Repeat Offender?

Local sources from Switzerland: Schweizer Radio und Fernsehen, Spiegel. UK coverage: The Guardian. In an extraordinary twist of fate, the Swiss municipality of Köniz has once again been the setting for a peculiar traffic violation, involving none other than a speeding duck. Captured by a radar trap on April 13,…
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Global Leaders Address the Ethical Challenges of Artificial Intelligence

Local sources from Vatican: Economyup, ModenaToday. UK coverage: The Telegraph. In a world increasingly driven by technological advancement, the ethical implications of artificial intelligence (AI) have become a focal point of international dialogue. Pope Leo XIV, in his inaugural address, has positioned AI as the ‘primary challenge facing humanity today,’…
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Pope Leo XIV Calls for Unity and Fundamental Values in First Homily as Global Leaders and Communities React

Local sources from Vatican: Corriere Roma, Sky TG24. UK coverage: The Telegraph. In a world often divided by faith, ideology, and geography, the Vatican’s latest transition has captured global attention. Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost, has officially begun his pontificate, emphasizing a return to fundamental Christian values, humility,…
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British-South African Woman Found Dead in France: Second Person in Custody

Local sources from France: francebleu.fr, France Info. UK coverage: BBC. A British-South African woman, Karen Carter, was found dead with stab wounds near her car in the village of Trémolat, France. The shocking incident took place on Tuesday, April 29, and has left the community in disbelief. Karen’s husband, who…
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British Woman Found Beaten to Death in France: Murder Investigation Underway

Local sources from France: Le Courrier des Balkans, francebleu.fr. UK coverage: The Telegraph. Trémolat, France – A 65-year-old British woman was tragically found beaten to death at her home in Trémolat, France. The victim, who was a member of an over-50s football team, had recently been in a relationship with…
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Europe’s Ariane 6 Rocket Successfully Launches, Restoring Europe’s Access to Space

Local sources from France: Le Monde, 20 Minutes. UK coverage: European Space Agency. Europe’s new heavy-lift rocket, Ariane 6, successfully made its inaugural flight from Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana. The rocket, which replaces the Ariane 5, has a modular design that allows it to launch missions from low-Earth orbit…
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Left-Wing New Popular Front Claims Right to Govern After Legislative Elections

Local sources from France: Le Monde, Midi Libre. UK coverage: Euronews. In a surprising turn of events, the left-wing New Popular Front (NFP) in France has emerged as the leading bloc in the snap legislative elections. Although they fell short of an absolute majority, the NFP believes they have the…
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Seven Independence Activists Transferred to Mainland France for Incarceration

Local sources from France: FRANCE 24, FRANCE 24. UK coverage: Al Jazeera English. Seven Kanak independence activists, accused of playing a key role in the violence related to electoral reform in New Caledonia, have been transferred to mainland France on Saturday night for imprisonment. Among them is Christian Tein, leader…
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EU Leaders Consider Second Term for Ursula von der Leyen Amidst Obstacles

Local sources from Belgium: EURACTIV France, Le Soir. UK coverage: The Guardian. EU leaders are currently deliberating over the possibility of granting Ursula von der Leyen a second term as head of the European Commission. While her European People’s Party emerged victorious in the European Parliament elections, several hurdles lie…
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Dutch PM Rutte Offers Deal to Hungarian PM Orbán in Bid for NATO Role

Local sources from Netherlands: Nederlands Dagblad, Het Financieele Dagblad. UK coverage: Financial Times. Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte has proposed a deal to Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán as part of his campaign to secure the top job at NATO. Rutte’s offer comes amidst opposition from Orbán and other Eastern…
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France to Send Mirage Fighter Jets to Ukraine in Show of Support

Local sources from France: Le Monde, TF1 INFO. UK coverage: POLITICO Europe. In a surprising announcement, French President Emmanuel Macron revealed that France will be sending Mirage 2000 fighter jets to Ukraine, marking a significant increase in direct military support to Kyiv. The announcement came during an interview in Caen,…
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Police Officer Dies After Knife Attack at Anti-Islam Rally in Mannheim

Local sources from Germany: zeit.de, FAZ – Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung. UK coverage: FRANCE 24 English. A police officer in Germany has tragically lost his life after being stabbed multiple times during an attack at an anti-Islam rally in Mannheim. The attack took place on Friday, resulting in the officer undergoing…
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Knife Attack at Anti-Islam Rally in Mannheim Leaves Six Injured

Local sources from Germany: STERN.de, Neue Zürcher Zeitung – NZZ. UK coverage: The Guardian. A knife attack at an anti-Islam rally in Mannheim, Germany, has left six people injured. The attacker, a 25-year-old man from Herat, Afghanistan, who resides in South Hesse, targeted participants of the rally organized by the…
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French Court Finds Three Syrian Officials Guilty of Crimes Against Humanity

Local sources from France: Le Figaro, Le Parisien. UK coverage: The Guardian. In a historic trial in France, three high-ranking Syrian officials have been found guilty of crimes against humanity and war crimes. Ali Mamlouk, head of the Syrian secret services, Jamil Hassan, former head of the Syrian air force…
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Tensions Rise in New Caledonia Amidst Accusations of Interference and Political Violence

Local sources from France: Courrier international, La Croix. UK coverage: Euronews. France has accused Azerbaijan of interfering in the politics of New Caledonia, a French Overseas territory that has experienced a recent outbreak of political violence. The sudden surge of violence, resulting in four deaths and hundreds of injuries, did…
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Tensions Escalate in New Caledonia as Riots Continue

Local sources from France: Le Figaro, 20 Minutes. UK coverage: The Guardian. Tensions in New Caledonia remain high following days of riots, with areas of the territory ‘escaping’ state control, according to the French government’s representative. The number of police and gendarmes on the island will increase to 2,700 from…
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Trinity College Dublin Agrees to Divest from Israeli Companies Following Student Protest

Local sources from Germany: WELT, zdf.de. UK coverage: The Guardian. Trinity College Dublin has reached an agreement with student protesters to divest from Israeli companies with activities in the Occupied Palestinian Territory. The five-day protest led to the closure of the campus, resulting in an estimated loss of €350,000 in…
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French Bakers Reclaim World Record for Longest Baguette

Local sources from France: BFM Paris Ile-de-France, 20 Minutes. UK coverage: The Guardian. A group of twelve bakers from France have reclaimed the world record for the longest baguette, measuring 140.53 meters. The previous record had been held by a group of bakers in Italy for the past five years.…
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Farmers’ Protest in France Leads to Arrests and Traffic Disruptions

Local sources from France: 20 Minutes, Sud Ouest. UK coverage: The Telegraph. A group of farmers in France broke into the Rungis wholesale food market in Paris, leading to the arrest of 79 individuals. The farmers were protesting against low pay, excessive regulations, and unfair competition from foreign rivals. Despite…
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Snow Causes Chaos in Southern Germany, Disrupting Flights and Train Services

Local sources from Germany: zdf.de, kicker. UK coverage: The Guardian. Heavy snowfall in southern Germany has caused chaos, with Munich airport suspending flights until 6am on Sunday and over 760 flights affected. Train traffic has also been disrupted, with the main Munich station unable to be served. A football match…
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International Arrest Warrant Issued for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad

Local sources from France: FRANCE 24, Le Monde. UK coverage: The Guardian. A French court has issued an international arrest warrant for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad for complicity in war crimes and crimes against humanity. The warrant is related to the use of banned sarin gas in two attacks in…
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Hostage Situation Ends at Hamburg Airport after 18 Hours

Local sources from Germany: NDR.de, WELT. UK coverage: ITV News. A hostage situation at Hamburg Airport has come to an end after more than 18 hours, resulting in the safe release of a four-year-old girl. The armed man, who had driven onto the airport apron with his daughter, was arrested…




















