France headlines: heatwaves and wildfires strain Europe; the country faces climate-linked challenges while hosting global events and maintaining a pivotal role in NATO, the EU, and international diplomacy.
The Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has confirmed more than 2,000 cases in two months, including roughly 796 deaths, and WHO modelling says the true toll could be two to four times higher. Cases have spread to five provinces and to neighbouring Uganda while strikes, attacks on clinics and funding shortfalls are undermining the response.
The FIFA World Cup final half-time show has been confirmed as an 11-minute, Super Bowl-style spectacle curated by Coldplay’s Chris Martin, featuring Madonna, Shakira, BTS and others. While broadcasters foresee a longer break to accommodate stage setup, questions remain over compliance with Ifab rules and the impact on match analysis. The event supports the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund.
Balogun's red card was suspended for a year after political intervention, allowing him to play in the USA's last-16 loss to Belgium. The move has sparked criticism from football bodies and human rights groups, with investigations into Infantino's neutrality ongoing.
A record heatwave across Europe is highlighting stark inequalities, with low-income residents facing extreme indoor heat, limited cooling options, and greater health risks. Reports show attic homes in Paris and heat-stressed housing across several countries, underlining the need for policy action as temperatures stay high.
Experts say more than 2,700 excess deaths across England and Wales during May and June heatwaves are linked to extreme heat; about 550 in May and 2,200 in June, with 40-60% attributed to human-caused warming. Authorities warn the UK must adapt faster to rising temperatures as heatwaves become more common.
Kylian Mbappé has challenged a Paraguayan senator’s racist remarks after France’s 1-0 win over Paraguay, which advances France to the World Cup quarter-finals. The French government and football bodies condemn the comments and plan legal action.
Wildfires near Fontainebleau forest, 60-70 km southeast of Paris, have scorched hundreds of hectares as Europe endures a third heatwave. Trains and highways are disrupted; firefighting planes are deployed; evacuations are underway. Authorities warn the fires are virulent and driven by extreme heat.