France Reaffirms Military Support for Ukraine
France to deliver more Caesar artillery systems to Ukraine
France will send more Caesar artillery systems to help Ukraine defend itself against the Russian invasion, President Emmanuel Macron said on Sunday.
Macron, speaking to regional newspaper La Voix du Nord, did not specify how many more Caesar howitzers would be sent, but said they would be part of a new batch of military equipment to be delivered in the coming weeks and months.
“We will continue to provide military support to Ukraine, including more Caesar cannons,” Macron said.
France has already delivered 12 Caesar artillery systems to Ukraine, which have proven to be highly effective in the conflict.
The howitzers can fire 6 rounds per minute and have a range of up to 40 kilometers. They are mounted on six-wheeled armoured vehicles, making them mobile and difficult to target.
Macron said the new batch of military equipment would also include “drones, anti-ship missiles, and armoured vehicles”.
Ukraine has been calling for more military assistance from Western countries as it faces a fierce Russian offensive in the eastern Donbas region.
Karim Benzema sues French minister over Muslim Brotherhood claims
Paris (AFP) – French football star Karim Benzema has filed a lawsuit against Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin for accusing him of having “notorious” links to the Muslim Brotherhood, a legal source said on Sunday.
Darmanin made the claim in a book published last month, accusing Benzema of having “notorious” links to the Islamist group. The Minister has not provided any evidence to support his claim.
Benzema’s lawyer, Sylvain Cormier, said the lawsuit was filed for “defamation and insult”.
“These are very serious accusations that have no basis,” Cormier said. “They are defamatory and harmful to the reputation of my client.”
Benzema is one of France’s most famous footballers and has played for the national team since 2007. He is currently a striker for Real Madrid.
Macron criticised from all sides after ‘reactionary’ press conference
Paris (AFP) – French President Emmanuel Macron has been criticised from all sides after delivering a “reactionary” press conference on Saturday.
In the press conference, Macron defended his government’s record and attacked his opponents. He also made a number of controversial remarks, including a suggestion that women who wear the veil are “women in submission”.
Macron’s remarks have been widely condemned by politicians, journalists, and activists.
“Macron’s press conference was a disaster,” said Socialist Party leader Olivier Faure. “He was arrogant, divisive, and out of touch with the French people.”
“Macron’s remarks about women who wear the veil were offensive and Islamophobic,” said Muslim feminist activist Fadela Amara. “He should apologise immediately.”
Pharrell Williams showcases American western for Louis Vuitton collection
Paris (AFP) – American singer Pharrell Williams has showcased his latest collection for luxury fashion house Louis Vuitton.
The collection, titled “Country Western”, was inspired by the American West. it featured a range of Western-style clothing, including boots, hats, and denim jackets.
Williams has been a long-time collaborator with Louis Vuitton. He was first appointed creative advisor to the brand in 2017.
“I’m always looking for new ways to challenge myself and push the boundaries of fashion,” Williams said. “This collection is an exploration of my love for the American West, and I hope that it will inspire people to embrace their individuality.”
