Catherine Vautrin in the news as France’s Minister of the Armed Forces since 2025, after a career spanning Labour, Health, Solidarity, and Families.
Capgemini is beginning to divest its US subsidiary, Capgemini Government Solutions, following scrutiny over its contract with ICE for skip tracing services used in immigration enforcement. The move follows recent police shootings in Minneapolis and growing political pressure from France and US lawmakers demanding transparency.
China and the Philippines have increased military activity in the South China Sea. China’s survey ship was spotted near disputed islands, and Chinese patrols have challenged Philippine vessels. The Philippines signed a new military agreement with France, amid ongoing confrontations with China over territorial claims and maritime safety.
French President Macron and Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi signed agreements on nuclear energy, rare earths, space, and defense cooperation during Macron's visit to Japan. They emphasized de-escalating regional conflicts and strengthening their partnership to counter regional security threats and resource dependencies.
France has proposed a significant increase in defense spending, adding €36 billion ($42 billion) between 2024 and 2030. The move aims to prepare for potential conflicts with Russia and respond to NATO's evolving security challenges, including stockpiling ammunition and procuring drones, despite budget constraints.
A French UN peacekeeper has died from wounds sustained during an ambush in southern Lebanon while clearing a route to an isolated UNIFIL post. France and the UN have blamed Hezbollah, which denies involvement. Lebanese authorities have launched an investigation. The UN is considering a smaller peacekeeping presence after UNIFIL's mandate ends in December 2026.