Belgian national strike disrupts schools, flights and public transport

A leaked recording has revealed that U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff advised a senior aide to Russian President Vladimir Putin on how to present a peace plan regarding Ukraine to President Trump. This has reignited long-held suspicions among Ukrainians about Witkoff's loyalties and intentions.

Guinea-Bissau's President Umaro Sissoco Embalo confirmed his deposition during an interview with FRANCE 24, following a military takeover announced by soldiers claiming total control of the country. This development occurred amidst reports of gunfire near the presidential palace, escalating the political instability that has plagued the nation.

Negotiations for a revised peace plan between Russia and Ukraine are advancing, with a new proposal drafted by officials from Ukraine, Europe, and the US. This updated plan reportedly drops some of the Kremlin's more extreme demands, although Moscow has not yet responded officially.

Belgium is experiencing its third and final day of a national strike, which has resulted in the grounding of most flights at Brussels Airport and significant disruptions to public transport. The strike is organized by unions protesting against pension and labor reforms proposed by Prime Minister Bart De Wever, with Charleroi Airport also reporting major disruptions.

Guinea-Bissau's President Umaro Sissoco Embalo confirmed his deposition during an interview with FRANCE 24, following a military takeover where soldiers announced their control of the government amid reports of gunfire near the presidential palace. This significant escalation in political instability comes just days after contentious presidential elections were held in the country.

Irish author Tim MacGabhann has shared his journey of overcoming addiction in a memoir titled 'The Black Pool: A Memoir of Forgetting'. In an interview with FRANCE 24, he discussed his struggles with alcohol and drug use, which began at the age of 17 when he first accessed the drinks cabinet. MacGabhann describes a unique sensitivity to life, having been born missing a layer of skin that others possess.

In the UK, Nigel Farage, leader of the right-wing populist party Reform UK, is gaining significant support in the polls as he positions himself as a potential candidate for prime minister. His campaign has focused heavily on immigration, blaming it for various national issues, including the rising cost of living and long hospital waiting times. FRANCE 24's Clovis Casali and Claire Paccalin explored the impact of Farage's message on British voters.

France's top court has upheld the conviction of former President Nicolas Sarkozy for illegal campaign financing related to his 2012 reelection bid, confirming a one-year prison sentence, half of which is suspended. This ruling finalizes the legal consequences stemming from the Bygmalion case, where Sarkozy was found guilty of overspending on his campaign.