-
On October 21, 2025, former French President Nicolas Sarkozy began serving a five-year prison sentence at La Santé prison in Paris. Convicted of criminal conspiracy for allegedly seeking illegal Libyan funding for his 2007 presidential campaign, Sarkozy denies wrongdoing and has appealed. He is held in solitary confinement under high-security conditions and plans to write a book during incarceration.
-
Recent incidents highlight ongoing challenges for Reform UK, including allegations of Russian influence, internal conflicts, and political violence. Key figures like Nigel Farage and allies are under scrutiny amid accusations of links to Kremlin funding and inflammatory rhetoric, raising questions about the party's future and influence.
-
French Prime Minister Lecornu narrowly avoided ousting after parliament rejected motions to topple his government amid political deadlock. He suspended pension reform until 2027 to secure support for the 2026 budget, facing opposition from both the far-left and far-right. Macron's second term remains fragile as parliament remains divided.
-
On 25 November 2025, the UK government announced major asylum system reforms inspired by Denmark's strict policies. Refugee status will be temporary, reviewed every 30 months, with a 20-year wait for permanent settlement. Families, including children, may face forced removal if their home countries are deemed safe. The changes aim to curb illegal migration but have sparked widespread criticism from Labour MPs, refugee advocates, and community leaders.
-
The UK is implementing strict refugee policies inspired by Denmark, including shorter residence rights, asset seizures, and frequent status reviews. Critics warn these measures could increase racism and harm integration, echoing Denmark's experience of rising far-right support and social division.
-
As of December 2025, the Democratic National Committee (DNC) has chosen not to release its post-2024 election autopsy report, citing concerns it would distract from efforts to win the 2026 midterms. The report, based on over 300 interviews, highlights failures in outreach to young voters and public safety concerns. Meanwhile, fundraising struggles continue for the DNC, contrasting with the Republican National Committee's stronger financial position. Concurrently, former President Trump’s administration has deepened tensions with Europe, labeling it "decaying" and backing nationalist parties opposing immigration, further straining transatlantic relations amid the Ukraine conflict.
-
France's fractured parliament has approved a crucial social security budget after months of deadlock. The government, led by Prime Minister Se9bastien Lecornu, secured support by suspending Macron's pension reforms and avoiding a no-confidence vote. The passage marks a rare legislative success in a highly divided political landscape, but long-term budget issues remain unresolved.
-
Brigitte Bardot, iconic French actress and singer, has died at age 91. She rose to fame in 1956 with 'And God Created Woman' and later dedicated her life to animal rights. Her death marks the end of a legendary era in French cinema and culture.
-
French actress and animal rights activist Brigitte Bardot died Sunday at her home in southern France at age 91. Known for her iconic role in 'And God Created Woman' and her activism, she was a symbol of France's modern identity. Her death follows recent hospitalization, with no cause disclosed.
-
French actress and animal rights activist Brigitte Bardot died on Sunday at age 91. Known for her film career and later her outspoken far-right views, her funeral is scheduled for January 7 in Saint-Tropez, with public ceremonies planned. Her legacy remains controversial.
-
Brigitte Bardot, iconic French actress and animal rights activist, died on December 28 at age 91 in her home in Saint-Tropez. Her funeral will be held at Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption church, with a public broadcast and private burial overlooking the Mediterranean. She was known for her film career and activism.
-
Marine Le Pen, leader of France's far-right National Rally, is appealing a 2025 court ruling that convicted her of misusing EU funds and banned her from public office for five years. The appeal trial began on January 13, 2026, in Paris and could determine whether she can run in the 2027 presidential election. The verdict is expected by summer 2026.