Macron Holds Talks with Trump on Iran, Ukraine, and Trade Negotiations
The Élysée Palace confirmed early Friday that French President Emmanuel Macron spoke with former U.S. President Donald Trump late Thursday evening. According to an Élysée source, the discussion covered Iran, Ukraine, and ongoing negotiations between the EU and the U.S. regarding tariffs.
Earlier on Thursday, Macron also spoke with Saudi Arabia’s Mohammed bin Salman regarding Iran and the situation in Gaza.
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Germany and Netherlands Report Increased Russian Chemical Weapons Use in Ukraine
Intelligence services from Germany and the Netherlands have jointly accused Russia of intensifying the use of chemical weapons in Ukraine, violating the Chemical Weapons Convention.
Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans stated, “These weapons are being used systematically and extensively. This is a dangerous escalation and underscores the severity of the aggression Ukraine is confronting.”
He emphasized, “The repeated use of such weapons threatens not only Ukraine but also Europe and the broader international community. Stronger sanctions, continued isolation of Russia, and unwavering military support for Ukraine are necessary.”
Ukrainian reports cited in the document indicate that Russia has conducted over 9,000 chemical weapons attacks against Ukrainian forces since the full-scale invasion began in 2022, with at least three deaths directly linked to chemical exposure.
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Overnight Russian Strikes Hit Multiple Ukrainian Cities
Russia launched a large-scale assault overnight, firing 550 missiles and drones at Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities. The attack occurred shortly after a phone call between Russian President Vladimir Putin and former U.S. President Donald Trump.
Kyiv officials reported that the strikes injured at least 23 people, damaged railway infrastructure, and caused fires across the city. Mayor Vitali Klitschko said explosions were recorded in six of the capital’s ten districts.
The bombardment—part of Russia’s recent escalation—followed Trump’s call with Putin, during which the former U.S. leader reportedly urged a ceasefire and peace talks.
However, Trump later expressed frustration, telling reporters, “I’m very disappointed with the conversation. It seems he has no intention of stopping, which is regrettable. There was no progress.”
Trump is expected to speak with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky later today.
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Mysterious Drones Strike Two Vessels Near Bulgarian Coast – Europe Live
Morning Update: Two Ships Targeted by Drones Off Bulgarian Coast
This morning, two ships in the Black Sea near Bulgaria were struck by drones of unknown origin. The attack led to the sinking of one vessel and initiated emergency rescue operations, as reported by Bulgarian Prime Minister Rumen Radev. Rescue