Macron convenes security meeting ahead of fresh protests in France
French President Emmanuel Macron has called a security meeting after returning from a Gulf tour, as more protests are planned in France this Saturday. Several Asian governments are urging citizens to avoid protest-hit European countries.
French President Emmanuel Macron convened a meeting with ministers and intelligence services on Thursday, 22 October, after returning from a tour of Gulf states. The aim is to decide how to prevent disorder in French cities, with further protests planned for this Saturday. The situation matters beyond France, as several governments are already warning their citizens about travel to Europe.
Macron told reporters earlier this week that the government must hold its nerve. He is expected to speak after the meeting. Later today, French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu will separately meet party leaders to hear their concerns, including over policing and next year's presidential campaign.
Travel warnings
Thailand has advised its citizens to postpone non-essential travel to parts of Europe affected by protests. Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phungketkeow said the situation is changing rapidly and France remains a concern. He also cited protests in Italy and said he was worried about Spain; his Italian counterpart had to cancel a bilateral meeting because of an urgent cabinet session on the unrest.
The Malaysian embassy in Paris advised Malaysians in France on Sunday to be cautious and vigilant. China told its citizens travelling to France to take safety precautions, after town halls and shops were looted and set on fire over the weekend.
Italy and Spain end border checks
Italy and Spain have dropped mutual border controls introduced after the Ceuta border crisis. Italy's interior ministry said the two countries' interior ministers agreed in a phone call that the Schengen suspensions would not be extended. The decision will be accompanied by stronger information exchange.
Attacks on Ukraine
Following overnight strikes on Kyiv, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Russia launched three waves of ballistic missiles, using 21 missiles. At least two people were killed and 34 injured in Kyiv, including five children. Damaged sites include residential buildings, energy facilities, the metro, shopping malls and a monastery. Port infrastructure in the Odesa region was also hit.
