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French plan to establish a New Caledonia state flatly rejected by pro‑independence forces.
Kanak French Fingers the Paris Deal as Quirky: “It Just Doesn’t Fit Our Core Values”

Who’s the Party Behind the Positivity?

The Kanak Socialist National Liberation Front (FLNKS) – a group with a punchy name and a clear mission – has issued a damning statement about the latest peace pacts that reached Paris like a misaligned puzzle piece.

The Paris Proposal: A Roadblock, According to the Kanak Crew

Designated by the FLNKS as “incompatible with the foundations and achievements of our struggle,” the deal, supposedly born out of diplomatic goodwill, has few supporters in the Kanak camps. They argue it sidesteps decades of hard-won progress and glosses over real territorial uproars that still echo in the islands’ collective conscience.

Core Reasons Why It Crashes Right Off
- Historical Injustice Ignored: The plan glosses over the century-long injustices faced by the Kanak people, leaving out the essential path to restorative justice.
- Territorial Autonomy Diluted: The agreement tries to hand over more control to metropolitan governance rather than cementing a meaningful fiscal autonomy for the islands.
- Local Voices Short‑Circuited: Decision‑making panels and community consults have been sidelined, making the proposal feel like a top‑down push‑in.
- People‑First Approach Lost: The deal’s framework has rushed out a national policy that, in the eyes of the FLNKS, neglects the daily pulse and culture of the Kanak.
Next Steps in the Canary Affair

While the FLNKS moves to halt cooperation on the contentious plan, it’s doing more than shot‑gun protests. They’re setting up a summit with representatives from the Pacific islands, launching a coordinated media push, and reaching out to Pacific allies for broader backing.

Bottom Line: The Deal Is a Rough Draft in Their Eyes

In an echo of cultural pride, the FLNKS says that the Paris compromise, if it’s going to work, must be re‑balanced to truly respect the Kanak’s history and aspirations. Merging humour, with a sprinkle of heartfelt sincerity, the headline rings out—no more “one‑size‑fits‑all” politics for them.

New Caledonia’s No Thank You to the “New State” Plan

Picture this: a bright‑sided, humanitarian negotiation in Paris that ends with a big “NO” from the pro‑independence camp. Why? Because the compromise still keeps the islands under the French umbrella, and that doesn’t sit well with the Kanak dream of full sovereignty.

What the Deal Said (and What It Forgot)
- They’ll Call It a “State of New Caledonia”—but still French, still in France’s constitution.
- Citizens Get Two Passports—French and Caledonian. Sanchez says that’s cool, but haters point out it’s just a fancy way of saying “We’re still part of France.”
- No Independence Clause—That’s the kicker for the Kanaks who want to call it an independent nation, not a French state‑in‑no‑town.
Why the Resistance?

The group that champions independence is the Kanak Socialist National Liberation Front (FLNKS), which has spent decades marching for full autonomy.
- They argue that a “state” still under French rule stifles opportunities for true self‑determination.
- They’re not just talking about politics; it’s cultural survival, land rights, and the pride of saying “We’re our own people.”
- Even the smaller parties re‑echo the Proposition: “No thanks, we’re done with compromise.”
Behind the 10‑Day Huddle

Last month, both sides locked horns on a table in Paris, with French officials, pro‑independence voices, and the FLNKS all in the same room. The 10‑day negotiation session sounded intense, but when the plan left the table, it still felt like an unequal deal.

“It’s almost like someone gave us a half‑cookie and expected us to eat the whole thing.” – A frustrated Kanak leader

The Aftermath: What’s Next?
- Pro‑independence groups will file another round of petitions. They want an agreement that gives them full sovereignty.
- France will need to tweak the plan or risk more friction in the Pacific theatre.
- In the meantime, New Caledonia residents get to enjoy a mix of French and Caledonian identity—kind of like a bilingual sandwich that’s still half-baked.
Bottom line? The French proposal got a polite decline, and the dream of a fully independent New Caledonia remains on the horizon.

New Caledonia’s Future: The Deal Dilemma

What’s happening?
The island’s leading pro‑independence group, the FLNKS, has just blasted the latest draft of the “Bougival” agreement in an extraordinary congress. The coalition shouted a flat “no” and called the proposal a “road‑block to our struggle’s foundation.”

Key Points from the FLNKS
- Rejection – Dominique Fochi said the draft is incompatible with their principles and historic gains.
- Peaceful Appeal – Marie‑Pierre Goyetche urged supporters to stop the state if it’s trying to force the deal, calling for a calm backlash.
- Missing the Big Ticket – The deal lacks a new independence referendum, which many Kanak activists say is essential.
Valls’ Mission

French Minister for Overseas Territories Manuel Valls hit the socials with a promise: he’ll head to New Caledonia next week to try to pull the “historic compromise” back together. Whether the island’s future can truly be re‑closed remains to be seen.

What’s Next?

The island’s political climate is still tricky. If the FLNKS keeps the pressure on, the Constitution might keep sidelining a fresh referendum. With Valls in town, there’s a chance to patch things up—if the province decides to open its doors again.

Recent unrest

New Caledonia’s Powder‑Keg 2024: 14 Lives Lost, billions Of Euros Vanished

The Spark—Voting, Vengeance, and a French Twist

In May 2024, when the French government announced plans to grant voting rights to thousands of non‑indigenous long‑term residents, the local way of life shook like a shaken bottle of rum. The move sparked mass riots that left at least 14 people dead and turned the island’s economy into a colossal gash worth billions of euros.

Who Can Vote Now?
- Kanaks — the indigenous people of New Caledonia.
- Those who came from France before 1998.
That’s it. No blueberries or other fruit‑fueled protesters included.

The 40,000 French Immigration Surge

Since 1998, another 40,000 French citizens have crossed the sea and set foot on the overseas territory. It’s like a massive “French fries” pop‑up shop that never shuts down.

The Main Agreement – Nou mea Accords

France rolled out three independence referendums between 2018 and 2021. Those protests were a by‑product of the Nou mea Accord that followed the 1988 peace deal—all aimed at stopping the bloodshed that had split factions into two camps. The accord opened the door for a political future that—unfortunately—has now turned into a powder keg.

Smoke and Anger: Noumea’s Protest Scene

On May 15th, 2024, smoke swirled over Noumea while crowds chanted, no doubt fueled by strong opinions—both from within fences and beyond the city limits. The local streets seemed alive with the scent of frustration, and the news had a half‑humorous, half‑serious tone about how the country’s future might just lean more on the French mainland.

Majority Sticks With France
- Majority vote — Most voters opted to stay in the French fold, turning a potential split into continuity.
- For many, that decision feels like choosing the familiar sauce on your favorite pizza.
The Kanaks’ Standpoint
- They boycotted the 2021 referendum because it fell on a COVID‑19 crisis that left their community hit hard.
- They rejected its results, hoping the next vote might happen under calmer skies.
Poverty Numbers That Matter

According to the 2019 census:
- 32.5% of indigenous Kanaks—who represent 41% of the total population—are living in poverty.
Looking Ahead: Diversify, Diversify, Diversify!
- There’s a growing buzz to shift away from the heavy nickel mining that keeps the economy dependent on overseas whispers.
- If the community can broaden its economic portfolio, they’ll be less tethered to French hand‑me‑the‑money.
In short, the city’s smoky scene reminds us that even in heated debates, people are always searching for a better future—though the path may well be written with a few more smokes and a lot of grassroots grit.
2025-09-25
German politicians furious at von der Leyen over new EU-US trade deal

German businesses and politicians are shocked by the customs deal that EU executive chief Ursula von der Leyen negotiated with the US president, seen as potentially damaging to Germany’s economy.

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German politicians across party lines denounced European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Tuesday, calling for her resignation after she agreed to asymmetric trade terms that impose 15% US tariffs on EU exports while granting Americans duty-free access to European markets.
The deal, struck under pressure from German Chancellor Friedrich Merz both in public and behind the scenes to avoid threatened 30% punitive tariffs, triggered unprecedented cross-party criticism in Germany, where lawmakers described the arrangement as a “capitulation” and “betrayal of Europe”.

Merz himself initially appeared satisfied. “With the agreement, we have succeeded in averting a trade conflict that would have hit the export-oriented German economy hard,” the German chancellor said on Sunday.
By Monday evening, however, Merz suddenly had a change of heart, expressing strong reservations. The agreed tariffs were now a “considerable burden” for the German economy, in the eyes of Merz.
Under the agreement announced Sunday, EU products face 15% US tariffs while American goods enter Europe levy-free. For the EU, the US tariff rate for steel and aluminium imports will remain at 50%.
The EU also committed to purchasing $750 billion in US energy and pledged $600 billion in European corporate investments in America.
The deal led to an unprecedented wave of shock and outrage across all camps of German politics. Now, for the first time in a long time, all German parties are criticising the move.US President Donald Trump
AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin

“Due to pressure from the German chancellor, the EU has agreed to a deal that abandons fundamental principles of rules-based global trade. Instead of long-term stability, the agreement creates uncertainty,” Sandra Detzer from the Greens said, slamming the deal at the Bundestag.
In fact, this agreement hits Germany particularly hard. According to the Institute for Economic Research (IfW), the deal will cost the German economy around €6.5 billion in terms of its GDP in the first year.
“This is an inadequate compromise and sends a fatal signal to the closely interlinked economies on both sides of the Atlantic,” warned Wolfgang Niedermark from the Federation of German Industries (BDI).

A rate of 15% is set to have immense adverse effects, and the lack of an agreement for steel exports was an “additional low blow”, he pointed out.

‘Von der Leyen should resign for this worst deal ever’

German EU politician Fabio De Masi (BSW) is also shocked.
“This bad deal will do immense economic damage to Europe – it is a betrayal of Europe. Mrs von der Leyen should resign for this worst deal ever,” he told Euronews.EU-Politiker und Finanzspezialist Fabio De Masi (BSW)
BSW

“While the US is to export duty-free to the EU, EU exporters will be subject to a 15% tariff. In addition, European companies are to make direct investments worth hundreds of billions of US dollars.”
“So Trump is hitting us with new punitive tariffs and, as business, we are filling his order books with purchases of dirty US fracking gas and defence equipment.”
EU politician Svenja Hahn (FDP) concurs. “15% tariffs are better than the threatened 30 – but the deal is not a success. At best, it is damage control,” she told Euronews.
The deal struck on Sunday represents “unbalanced to the detriment of the EU, contains no substantial successes” and weakens “rules-based trade”.EU-Abgeordnete und Handelsexpertin Svenja Hahn (FDP)
Svenja Hahn/Niels Biermann

“Ursula von der Leyen has damaged the EU’s reputation and economic strength with her weak conduct of negotiations, she must finally deliver: less bureaucracy, a strong internal market and real progress on free trade agreements, especially Mercosur,” Hahn explained.
German-Polish MEP Tomasz Froelich (AfD) told Euronews that the agreement reached is “not a deal”, but “a capitulation of the EU”, as there had been no serious attempt to exert pressure on the US, according to him.AfD MEP Tomasz Froelich
EU Parlament

“This declaration of bankruptcy stands in stark contrast to the EU’s otherwise grandiloquent behaviour on the international stage: confrontation in all directions, leaving hardly any options, especially in the area of energy imports,” he explained.
“I will work in the EU Parliament to ensure that this humiliating and ruinous agreement is prevented after all,” Froelich, who serves as the first deputy head of the AfD delegation at the European Parliament, added.

Governing parties lob criticism too

Ruling CDU/CSU lawmaker Johannes Winkel stepped up to the plate.
“This humiliation of Europe by the US must above all be a reason for self-criticism,” Winkel warned on X.
“Energy saving, bureaucracy, ESG instead of innovation, growth and technology. This politically motivated economic self-deprecation must end.”
Others representing the coalition partner SPD also dared to come forward with particularly harsh criticism.
Bremen’s mayor, Andreas Bovenschulte said on X: “The worst thing is how our EU leader is allowing herself to be humiliated into licking Trump’s boots and flattering him as a ‘tough – even fair – dealmaker’. Not a spark of honour in her body.”
The SPD politician later walked back on a part of his statement. “I take back the honour thing. That was a bit harsh,” he said.
In his hometown of Bremen, thousands of jobs at the ArcelorMittal steel plant are in jeopardy.Markus Söder (CSU)
Matthias Schrader/Copyright 2024 The AP. All rights reserved.

Bavaria’s Minister President Markus Söder (CSU) was honest and made it clear on Monday: things cannot go on like this.
“The customs deal has prevented the worst,” Söder said, “but the situation is now more difficult than before, especially for the automotive industry.”
“That’s why it must be clear: There must be no additional taxes in Europe, as the EU is currently planning.”
Relief would now be needed to offset the tariffs. Söder criticised von der Leyen: “We simply need to do less of a Green Deal in Europe and more of an Economic Deal.”
Economic expert and longstanding German MEP Markus Ferber (CSU) also made it clear to the Bild newspaper: “If you consider that our offer was the complete elimination of all tariffs, then the deal is not a great success.”
“Fifteen per cent makes European products massively more expensive in the US and will hit the German economy particularly hard. Even if a non-agreement would have been even more expensive, a good deal looks different.”

2025-09-06
Balancing the Skies: Can Passengers and Airlines Find Common Ground?
New EU Flight Rules: Your Handbag Could Be the Next Taxi Fare

Why the whole talk is going right “wild”

Picture this: you’re all set for a breezy getaway across the continent, but the airline’s just plopped a “hand luggage fee” on the price tag. That’s the fresh wave of EU air‑passenger rights reforms spicing up travel. The goal? Let airlines earn a little more while giving passengers a clearer picture of the final cost.

What’s actually changing?
- Hand luggage suddenly becomes a paid item. Airlines can charge as much as they want for a carry‑on, so that free bag you’ve been using forever might now come with a price tag.
- Passenger rights shift to a “pay‑what‑you‑want” model. Think of it like a cafe that lets you tip as you wish instead of a fixed menu.
- Clearer, stricter enforcement rules. If your flight exceeds the new limits, you’ll get a hassle‑free apology and a refund—no more guessing games!
How this affects you (and how to survive it)

Whether you’re a frequent flyer or a weekend wanderer, here’s what you’ll need to keep in mind:
- Plan ahead. Check the airline’s policy before you buy tickets. A few extra euros now can mean a more relaxed trip later.
- Pack smartened: Keep heavier items in checked bags and only move the essentials with you.
- Have your “weather the chill” ready: Bring a neck pillow, keep a small water bottle, and don’t forget a smile. That way you’ll be ready for any extra charges.
- For the bold: If you truly dislike the new rules, you can fly with airlines that still respect the old regs. Just search for a “no hand‑bag fee” tag.
Bottom line – joke aside, it’s mainly a pricing adjustment

The gist? EU air‑rights reforms are about giving travelers’ transparency while letting airlines expand revenue streams. It’s no outright crackdown, just a new flat fee for the “handbag service” we all used to take for granted.

EU’s New Passenger Horizon: Rights, Airlines, and the Numbers Game

Picture this: you’re on a plane, the cabin crew is flipping the feed, and you’re all set for a breezy ride. Suddenly, the system that’s supposed to protect you from those annoying flight hiccups isn’t doing its job. That’s exactly why the EU transport ministers were huddling up.

Why the Uplift? A Quick Time‑Travel

The idea to spruce up passenger rights surfaced back in 2013. Back then, travelers had to wrestle with maze‑like complaints, and airlines were at the mercy of inconsistent rules. Fast forward to today: the Commission’s revised plan will make the rules flatter and friendlier—but with a silver lining that might feel like a glass of lukewarm coffee.

What’s on the Card? A Three‑Play Table
- Streamlined Procedures – The new guidelines cut through the bureaucracy, making it easier for folks to file a complaint.
- Airline‑Friendly Clause – Airlines now get a clearer framework on how to calculate payouts for layovers or near‑misses.
- Potential Extra Cost – While simplification looks good on paper, passengers may end up spending more when an airline calls for compensation.
Why It’s Worth Paying Attention To

In plain terms, the revision is a double‑edge sword. The aim is to protect you, but your wallet might feel a little bit thinner if a flight delay turns into an ‘extra’ fee.

Bottom Line: A Mix of Hope & Head‑Scratch

So, keep an eye on the new rules, and if you’re flying soon, do a quick check of what you’re really paying for your travel comfort.

EU Sets New Flight‑Delay Rules That Will Make Airlines Look That Much Better

So, you finally caught a flight that’s got a little delay (or, more accurately, an ok, probably 3‑hour wait?), and you think you’ll get a sweet payout? Think again! The EU’s latest proposal will raise the threshold for compensation from three hours to four. Yes, that’s right – you’ll have to wait an extra hour before the airline can hand over that hard‑earned euro.

And if you thought that was the only twist, keep reading. The same law will let airlines add cabinet‑like fees for all your carry‑on tchotchkes. Only small bags that fit neatly under the seat will still fly free. The rest? Start packing into that overhead bin that’s always too crowded.

A coalition of EU transport ministers nods to the plan, but four countries – Germany, Portugal, Slovenia and Spain – are not thrilled. They’re all about keeping consumer protection in the spotlight.

Spain’s Take
- Calls for “clear, precise legal wording” to hunt down loopholes.
- Worries airlines could slip through the cracks and dodge payouts.
Germany’s View
- Deems the moves will “reduce consumer protection.”
- Wants to keep the current 3‑hour rule intact.
What’s Next?

These disagreements are poised to re‑emerge in soon‑coming talks with the European Parliament. Whether you’ll get a refund or have to stand on your own for the next 4 hours, the negotiations will keep everyone on their toes.

Bottom Line

For now, the rule change means you’ll probably lose a minute – and maybe your spare suitcase – for the flight’s extra lay‑over. Keep your bags light, and stay ready to save the day if you have the right “travel hacks.” Good luck, fellow wanderer!

Consumer opposition

The EU’s Transport Committee is Stirring Things Up

On May 24, the Committee on Transport and Tourism in the European Parliament took a big step by voting on a fresh set of changes to flight‑and‑travel regulations. The only thing left is that the full Parliament has to give the final thumbs‑up, and that could bring in a few tweaks.

What They’re Pitching
- Free child seats – No more paying extra to let your little one join the flight.
- Zero‑cost personal items & small carry‑on – You’ll finally get to bring your bag without those annoying fees.
- One‑stop reimbursement form – Say goodbye to the paperwork maze.
- Better multimodal travel safeguards – So moving from train to plane to bus is smoother than a buttered slide.
The Critics in the Room

The centre‑right EPP and the centre‑left S&D have already weighed in – they’re not thrilled. And the European Consumer Organisation (BEUC) has thrown its weight behind the critics.

Agustín Reyna, director‑general of BEUC, was quick to slam the price‑tag on hand luggage, especially from budget carriers. “Charging for a little bag is an illegal practice under EU law and the European Court of Justice’s rulings,” he chided. “Now the governments appear to be looking for ways to legitimize that.”

Reyna also flagged the new rules that let airlines flex a bit more when it comes to flight‑delay compensation. “We’re supposed to give airlines more leeway, but it just blurs the court’s clear line: three hours is the sweet spot for residents to be entitled to compensation.”

Airlines Are Thumbs‑Up

Not everyone’s on the fence. Airlines for Europe, which represents roughly 80% of EU air traffic, cheered the review. They say the changes will help them craft the best possible package for passengers. “We’re excited to make travel smoother,” the group noted.

Want to see the full story?

Watch the video here! (No real link – just a playful nudge.)

Credits
- Journalist: Isabel Marques da Silva
- Content production: Pilar Montero López
- Video production: Zacharia Vigneron
- Graphic design: Loredana Dumitru
- Editorial coordination: Ana Lázaro Bosch & Jeremy Fleming‑Jones
2025-09-03
Kim Jong-un holds ceremony to welcome North Korean soldiers home from fighting for Russia

State-controlled Korean Central News Agency said Kim awarded state “hero” titles to commanders and soldiers who returned after fighting alongside Russian forces in the Kursk border region.

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North Korea’s leader Kim Jong-un held a ceremony in the capital Pyongyang to award state honours to soldiers who returned from combat in Ukraine and to mourn those killed, state media said on Friday.
The official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said Kim awarded state “hero” titles to commanders and soldiers who returned after fighting alongside Russian forces in the Kursk border region.

He also placed medals beside the portraits of fallen North Korean troops, described by state media as “martyrs.”
“The participants of overseas operations, through their steadfast struggle and noble sacrifice, achieved great feats that will be remembered in history forever,” Kim said in a speech.
According to South Korean assessments, North Korea has sent around 15,000 troops to Russia since last autumn and supplied large quantities of military equipment, including artillery and ballistic missiles, in support of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.Kim Jong-un meets the leading commanding officers deployed to Kursk at the headquarters of the Central Committee of the Workers’ Party of Korea in Pyongyang, Aug. 20, 2025.
Korean Central News Agency/Korea News Service via AP

Kim has also agreed to send thousands of military construction workers and deminers to Kursk, a deployment South Korean intelligence believes could happen soon.

South Korean officials have expressed concern that North Korea could receive badly needed economic aid and advanced military technologies in exchange for its war support.
They fear that could enhance the threat posed by Kim’s nuclear weapons programme. Experts say North Korea’s military would also obtain valuable combat experiences from the war.

Deepening ties with Putin

Last week, Kim and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a phone call to discuss their deepening ties and efforts against Ukraine, according to both countries’ state media.
Putin had reportedly praised the “bravery, heroism and self-sacrificing spirit” displayed by North Korean troops as they fought with Russian forces to repel the Ukrainian incursion into Kursk.

The call took place ahead of Putin’s meeting with US President Donald Trump in Alaska. Russia’s TASS state news agency reported that Putin had also shared information with Kim about the talks. The North Korean reports did not mention the Trump meeting.In this photo provided by the North Korean government, North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un inspects the warship Choe Hyon in Nampo, North Korea, on Aug. 18, 2025.
Korean Central News Agency/Korea News Service via AP

Kim told Putin that Pyongyang will fully support “all measures to be taken by the Russian leadership in the future, too,” as they discussed advancing ties in “all fields” under a strategic partnership agreement they signed during a summit last year, KCNA said.
Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Kim has made Moscow the priority of his foreign policy as he aims to break out of diplomatic isolation and expand relations with countries confronting Washington.
His government has dismissed Washington and Seoul’s stated desires to restart diplomacy aimed at defusing the North’s nuclear programme, which derailed in 2019 following a collapsed summit with Trump during his first term.

Related

Kim Jong-un and Putin discuss alliance and war efforts against UkraineNorth Korea doubles down on ‘unconditional’ support for Russia’s war in Ukraine

South Korea’s new liberal President Lee Jae Myung has pushed to revive dialogue between the Koreas since taking office in June. He’s extended olive branches like ending cross-border propaganda broadcasts that irritate Pyongyang.
But Kim’s powerful sister Kim Yo-jong this week again taunted South Korean efforts to improve ties, saying that her country will never accept Seoul as a diplomatic partner.
With its alignment with Russia deepening, North Korea has also become more vocal in international affairs beyond the Korean Peninsula, issuing statements on conflicts in the Middle East and issues related to the Taiwan Strait.

2025-08-25
‘Louvre Couture’ exhibition in Paris breaks record to become Louvre’s second most visited showcase

Paris’ Louvre attracted more than a million people for its ‘Louvre Couture’ exhibition, the museum’s first showcase dedicated to fashion.

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More than a million people visited the Louvre’s first exhibition dedicated to fashion, ‘Louvre Couture’, which closed on Sunday.
The unique exhibition brought together masterpieces from the Louvre’s department of decorative arts and notable pieces from the history of contemporary fashion between the 1960s and 2025.Gucci topcoat on show at the Louvre Couture exhibtion
Musée du Louvre / Nicolas Bousser

Spread over almost 9,000 square metres, the exhibition featured around 100 fashion items and accessories on loan from 45 fashion houses and designers, including Hubert de Givenchy, Thom Browne, Alexander McQueen, Karl Lagerfeld and John Galliano. It was part of a drive to broaden the Louvre’s audience.Items from Paco Rabanne, Balenciaga and Loewe on show at the Louvre Couture exhibition
Musée du Louvre/Nicolas Bousser

Paris’ famous museum stated that the exhibition attracted 1.059 million visitors, making it the second most visited exhibition in the Louvre’s history – just shy of the 1.072 million for the 2019/2020 Leonardo da Vinci exhibition.
“We’re seeing a real upsurge in fashion in museums,” said Camille de Foresta, auctioneer and vice-president of Christie’s France – comments echoed by Louvre president and director Laurence Des Cars, who stated that the Louvre’s ambition was to attract “new generations of visitors with different cultural references.”For Castelbajac the Middle Ages are an inexhaustible source of inspiration
Musée du Louvre/Nicolas Bousser

‘Louvre Couture’ opened on 24 January and closed on Sunday 24 August 2025.

2025-05-26
EU's Operation Aspides says six crew recovered from ship sunk by Yemen's Houthis
Eternity C Gives a Surprise Twist to Monday Night!

The Scoop on the Incident

Greek‑owned Eternity C first hit an unexpected snag off the coast of Yemen during a calm Monday evening.
- It’s a textbook example of how even the smoothest rides can take a sudden detour.
- The ship’s name instantly turned from a catchy brand to headline fodder.
- Maritime authorities are on high alert, trying to untangle the mystery behind the impact.
Why Every Seafarer (and Reader) Should Pay Attention

In the grand saga of global shipping, this minute yet juicy episode serves as a gentle reminder that the ocean’s moods can shift with just a wink—so next time you’re planning a trip, keep your eyes on the horizon and your ears open for the next turn of the tide!

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Six crew members have been found in the Red Sea after the Iran-backed Houthis attacked a Liberian-flagged cargo ship, killing at least three of them and wounding several others.
A European naval force said on Wednesday that 19 people who had been travelling on the Eternity C vessel were still missing.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the EU’s Operation Aspides confirmed that the ship’s crew consisted of 22 sailors and a security team of three.
The Yemeni rebels first targeted the Greek-owned ship on Monday evening, according to European and US officials.

Houthi Fury in the Red Sea

On a sunny July day, Houthi supporters shook the streets of Sanaa with chants that echoed like a banner announcing: “No US, no Israel, no problem.” Meanwhile, the quiet of the Red Sea turned into a roar of conflict.

From a Quiet Journey to a Dramatic Downfall
- Just as the cargo ship Eternity C drifted north toward the Suez Canal, drone swarms and armed men in small boats had other plans.
- By midnight, the UK Maritime Trade Operations had scrambled “search and rescue” crews into the fray.
- Initial reports? The vessel was gone – a dramatic, watery plunge into the sea.
Revenge Is a Dish Best Served at Sea

Only a day before, the same rebel forces had launched a missile strike on the Magic Seas. After rescuing its crew, the ship met the same watery fate just a week deeper.

Both incidents happened about 100 km southwest of Hodeida, a port that the Houthis control. It’s the Red Sea’s spine, and they’re knocking on those ribs with a vengeance.

US State Department Speaks Up

The US, standing on the sidelines of the Gaza war, has fired a clear shot in the dark:

“The United States condemns the unprovoked Houthi terror attack on the civilian cargo vessels MV Magic Seas and MV Eternity C in the Red Sea, which resulted in the tragic loss of three mariners, with many others injured, and the complete loss of the MV Magic Seas and its cargo,”

“These attacks demonstrate the ongoing threat that Iran-backed Houthi rebels pose to freedom of navigation and regional economic and maritime security,”

These assaults marked the first Houthi attacks on this critical maritime corridor since last year, triggered by Israel’s war in Gaza.

What’s Under The Hood?
- Houthis claim the attacks were a response to Israel’s actions – a classic “you’re on our radar, we’ll rip your ships apart” approach.
- They’re messing with big logistics, pulling the world’s supply chain into their own battlefield.
- Until the next wave, sailors must keep their eyes on the horizon and their hearts close by.
So, from the streets of Sanaa to the depths of the Red Sea – the world watches as one rebellious faction tosses a rubber duck into an endless ocean of conflict.
2024-10-22
Fight Plastic at the Source: Reduce First, Recycle Second
Why the Plastic Storm Won’t Just Swirl Away

In 2021 the planet churned out more than 400 million tonnes of plastic – that’s twice the amount the world was making back in the early 2000s. And if we keep doing business as usual, we could be drowning in a three‑fold heap of plastic by 2060.

The Recycling Reality Check
- Only 9 % of plastic waste gets recycled.
- 19 % is incinerated, usually smacking our air with toxic fumes.
- The scary rest – almost 75 % – ends up in landfills or quietly creeping into rivers, lakes, and even our own bodies.
What That Means for Us

Every year, our lives become carpeted with single‑use bottles, snack wrappers, and those pesky “disposable” items that turn into entombed riches for future generations. The waste stream has turned into a messy buffet that the world isn’t prepared to serve.

Time to Turn the Page

Recycling alone isn’t enough. We need a big shift from “use and toss” to “care and create.” Think of this as steering a ship: the wheels need to turn faster than the storms.
- Cut down on the plastic that’s made in the first place. Ask yourself if you really need that extra sleeve of paper.
- Explore material alternatives. From bamboo to hemp, from algae‑based polymers to renewably sourced bioplastics.
- Get folks involved. Community drives, upcycling contests, and the kind of grassroots moves that make big headlines.
Let’s be honest: the plastic problem is like a stubborn soap opera – it keeps looping. It’s time for a plot twist, and that twist starts with us choosing smarter, greener, and gentler options for the planet and for ourselves.”

Ubiquitous… and invisible waste

Plastic Pollution: The Tiny Threat That’s Everywhere

Why the Blame is on the Big Picture

Plastics are stubborn—depending on a material’s mix they can hang around for 20 to 500 years before finally going on a long nightly stroll to oblivion. Even when they break into smaller fragments, they leave behind micro‑tiny leftovers that are less than 5 millimeters across. Those tiny rebels don’t just disappear: they hitch rides to the seas, taproot in soils, splash into rivers, and even sneak into the bodies of fish and us.

Where the Micro‑Plastics Hide
- Oceans: A black-banded highway for micro‑plastic highways.
- Soils: The underground “plastic soup” that crops keep ingesting.
- Rivers: A railing that carries them from inland to distant coasts.
- Living Things: Fish, crabs, even newborn babies—because it’s all part of the food chain.
Micro‑Plastics in Our Everyday Life
- Drinking water: More than a few milliliters of plastic in each glass.
- Breast milk: Even the long‑sought natural nourishment is not immune.
- Human blood: Scientists have detected these miniscule particles inside us.
Health Concerns: A Growing Alarm

In recent studies, scientists are sounding the alarm bells. The tiny particles can carry chemicals and toxins that might interfere with hormones, trigger inflammation, or spark unknown long‑term effects. As done research accumulates, the list of potential health risks grows louder.

What Can We Do?

While there’s no easy way out, we can reduce our plastic footprint, support recycling programs, and stay informed about new research. A little mindful consumption goes a long way—each plastic item we choose to not pick up at the store helps shrink the future plastic patchwork.

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Europe wants to stem the waste tide

EU’s Plastics Playbook: From Straws to Sea‑Savings

How the Union is Tackling the Plastic Problem

First off, the EU is on mission mode—backing down on the single‑use plastics that litter our daily lives. Here’s what they’re putting in motion:
- Since 2021, the ban slams shut on the most common, easy‑swap items: plastic bags, straws, and cutlery. Picture a world where your take‑out doesn’t feel like a sorry case of trash.
- New packaging rules are knocking out over‑packaging and turning boxes into recyclable champions. Think less plastic, more reusable, and a better chance of landing in the right recycle bin.
- Micro‑plastic smacks down in cosmetics, detergents, and industrial goods via the REACH regulation. That shiny rinse‑off? It can’t be packed with invisible plastic bullets.
- A draft on maritime transport gears up to stop industrial pellet leaks—protecting our seas from slick micro‑plastic mess.
- And the Marine Strategy Framework Directive is getting a revamp to keep our oceans free of litter, chunky and micro.
Research Rallies: Bio‑Solutions in the Pipeline

Money flows into projects that are turning science into green alternatives:
- SEALIVE—powered by Valencia’s ITENE research center—is hunting the next wave of biodegradable packaging.
- R3pack pushes the envelope on replaceable, reusable packaging systems.
Profit‑Pouchy Plan: Whole Market Shift by 2030

The Brussels brass is willing to pay the price for reuse, aiming for a 100% reusable or recyclable packaging market in ten years. That means you can keep buying the same container—easily, happily—yet still reduce the plastic footprint.

Bottom Line

From banning bags to steering research towards eco‑friendly crates, the EU is turning the tide on plastic. All that time spent scrolling through endless grocery lists? It’ll soon get matched with a greener, plastic‑free future!

Towards an international treaty on plastics

EU Leads the Charge Against Plastic Pollution

Across the continents, the European Union is spearheading a pop‑quiz for the planet: a legally binding global treaty to put the plastic problem in its place.

Two Sides of the Same Plastic Coin
- High‑Ambition Alliance – Over 100 countries, including the EU, Rwanda, Norway, and Peru, pushing for a full‑life‑cycle pact: from raw material extraction and manufacturing all the way to disposal.
- Downstream‑Only Group – Big oil players and a handful of other nations want the treaty to focus mainly on waste management and recycling, leaving the production side off the agenda.
The Hot Topics That Sparked Debates
- Sustainable Production & Consumption – How can we make plastics that don’t sabotage the planet?
- Reforming Problematic Items – Tackling single‑use plastics that clog our beaches and garbage cans.
- Reducing Hazardous Chemicals – A push to eliminate the most dangerous substances in plastic manufacturing.
Next Stop: Geneva

The forthcoming round of negotiations is slated for August 5–14, 2025 in the Swiss city of Geneva. All eyes will be on whether the high‑ambition alliance can convince the downstream group to broaden the treaty’s scope.
2023-11-25
Greenpeace alarms over looming ecological disaster as oil tankers collide near Strait of Hormuz
Oil Spill Alert: Greenpeace Taps into the Sky

Sheer Size? About 1,500 Hectares of Trouble

Picture this: a massive splash of oil stretching out like a taillight across the sea, measured at roughly 1,500 hectares. Thanks to high‑resolution satellite imagery, Greenpeace has confirmed the extent of the spill that erupted from a recent crash.

What the Satellites Saw
- Clear, unmistakable plume across open water
- Stretching from the crash site all the way into distant horizons
- Color contrast sharp enough to give the ocean a darker, oily sheen
Why This Matters

When we talk oil spills, size matters. A 1,500‑hectare footprint means
- Major aquatic habitats potentially hit
- Long‑term cleanup is set to be a colossal challenge
- Local fishermen and marine life are bracing for a tidal wave of trouble
Greenpeace’s Take: “We’re on the Front… Literally”

Greenpeace’s spokesperson quipped, “We’re looking up, but it’s still a very down‑to‑earth issue.” The implied humor doesn’t mask their sincerity: the waters are in urgent need of attention, and the satellite evidence is key to mobilizing global support.

Sudden Double Disaster in the Gulf of Oman: Oil Tankers Collide, Fires Play Host

Picture This

Two colossal oil tankers—ADALYNN and Front Eagle—ran into each other just east of the globe’s most crucial oil chokepoint, the Strait of Hormuz. The collision sparked a blazing inferno that painted the Gulf of Oman with a roaring glow.

How the Scene Unfolded
- Collision & Blaze: The giants hit on Tuesday, June 17, sending a dramatic burst of flames into the sky.
- Swift Evacuation: UAE National Guard swooped in early and rescued all crew members—luckily no injuries.
- No Casualties: Officials confirm that everyone survived the fiery chaos.
- Satellite Insights: NASA’s Fire Information for Resource Management System pinpointed intense heat signatures right at the rendezvous spot.
Greenpeace’s Take

Greenpeace sounds alarms over the potential environmental nightmare, especially given the tactical importance of the Strait. They warn that a spill could wreak havoc on marine life and local ecosystems.

Why This Matters

The Strait of Hormuz is a leviathan artery of global oil trade, and a disaster here could ripple across economies and become a heavyweight environmental headline.

What’s Next?

Authorities are scrambling to contain the blaze and prevent any oil leakage. Environmental watchdogs are ready to watch closely.

How much oil are the tankers carrying?

Greenpeace Spots Massive Oil Plunge

Greenpeace said they sifted through satellite imagery—think of it as a high‑resolution crime scene—with a surprising discovery: a slick of oil that could stretch out to an eye‑catching 1,500 hectares away from the crash point.
- Imagine a puff of black goo that could blanket a city-sized area.
- It’s so large that even the biggest drones would need a GPS update to keep track.
- And really, who hasn’t felt that “oh‑no” moment when a single spill feels like a giant ocean dive?
Oil Slick Alert! The 23‑Year‑Old Tanker That Stole the Spotlight

Picture this: a 23‑year‑old tanker named ADALYNN speeding through the Gulf of Oman when it met its doom in a collision that sent a massive splash of trouble into the sea. The ship came from what Greenpeace calls a Russian “shadow fleet”—a group of older vessels that skimp on safety—so the stakes weren’t just about a halted delivery truck on the road, but a huge chunk of crude oil almost making a grand entrance into marine life.

What’s the Damage?
- 70,000 tonnes of crude oil were at risk of spilling
- Collision was among “one of many dangerous incidents” this year, according to Farah Al Hattab of Greenpeace’s Middle East and North Africa division
- Alarm bells ring because “such oil spills endanger marine life.”
Who’s Talking?

The UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure brushed their shoulders off the story, refusing to comment. Meanwhile, Greenpeace’s top water‑watching wizards were filled with indignation and warnings about the threat to unsuspecting fish and seabirds.

What Do We Take From This?

Even though the tanker was only a little over two decades old, its lack of modern safety measures made it an apex predator for a spill. The incident is a reminder that “older” isn’t the same as “safer.” and that a little too much oil in the sea can trigger blue‑water tragedies.

Takeaway

If you ever think “the sea is safe,” remember: these shadow fleet ships can bring them all to the brink in a sweep of a single crash.

Israel-Iran conflict raises shipping concerns

Shocking Turns in the Strait of Hormuz

Just when the world thought a dramatic standoff between Israel and Iran was about to dominate headlines, a sudden collision at the Strait of Hormuz threw the situation on its head.

What Really Happened?

Ambrey, the UK maritime security firm that monitored the incident, quickly ruled out any direct link to the recent airstrikes. “It’s unrelated,” they said, leaving many wondering why the fuss erupted at all.

The Strait’s Big Role in the Oil Chain

Stretched out like a giant artery, the Strait is the vital gateway to the Persian Gulf. Roughly 20 million barrels of oil sail through it every day in 2024, making up a staggering one‑fifth of the world’s oil traffic. That’s a lot of diesel and petrol in one tight corridor.

Oil Prices and the Ripple Effect

When Israel struck Iran on 13 June, oil prices kicked up like a roller coaster. The globe fretted over the possibility that Iran could throttle the waterway—think traffic jam on the planet’s most crucial highway. Shipping companies, in a bid to stay safe, started tightening their security protocols or even ditching the route completely.

New Report Highlights the Shift
- Frontline, a huge publicly traded tanker company, announced that it will refuse any new contracts navigating the Gulf via the Strait.
- Hundreds of vessels reported choppy navigation signals this weekend, forcing them to rely heavily on radar for guidance.
- Some fleets have already altered their routes, opting for safer, longer detours.
So, while the headline drama was supposed to be an Israel‑Iran showdown, the real drama unfolded right after a seemingly unrelated collision in a waterway that is the lifeline of the global oil trade.
2023-07-30