French ministers hold crisis talks in Marseille over drug trafficking

Reports indicate that Donald Trump has attempted multiple times to pressure Kyiv into accepting a peace plan that heavily favors Russia. The proposed draft includes significant concessions from Ukraine, such as ceding territory in Donbas, reducing its military forces, and limiting U.S. military aid. Ukrainian President Zelensky has labeled these conditions as 'non-starters.'

Brussels has expressed frustration at being excluded from a rumored US-Russia peace plan for Ukraine. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell emphasized that any successful plan must include European involvement. Reports indicate the draft may require Ukraine to cede territory in the Donbas, reduce its military forces, and limit US military aid—conditions that Kyiv has labeled as unacceptable, raising concerns about European security and its role in the peace process.

Jazz musician and trumpet player Takuya Kuroda, currently on a European tour, discusses his career beginnings and recording process in an interview with FRANCE 24. Hailing from Kobe, Japan, Kuroda was inspired by Tokyo's vibrant jazz scene to move to New York, which he describes as a cultural melting pot. He attributes his genre-blending style, incorporating elements of funk and hip-hop, to jazz vocalist José James, who influenced him during his studies.

Fifty years after the death of dictator Francisco Franco, he remains a contentious figure in Spain. The government, led by Socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, announced plans to publish a list of Francoist symbols still present in public spaces that require removal. FRANCE 24's Rochelle Ferguson Bouyahi examines Franco's legacy and the ongoing taboo surrounding this topic in Spain.

A leaked US peace proposal requires Ukraine to make significant concessions, including ceding territory, recognizing Russia's control over Crimea, and reducing its military to 400,000 troops. The plan also demands that Ukraine relinquish all long-range weapons, aligning closely with Russia's longstanding demands, which Ukraine has consistently rejected as capitulation.

Amine Kessaci, a French anti-drugs activist, has vowed to continue his fight against drug-related violence in Marseille following the murders of his brothers. The violent deaths have intensified concerns over the influence of drug gangs in the city, prompting Kessaci to assert that he has 'no choice but to fight.'

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva arrived in Belem on Wednesday to attend the COP30 summit, marking a significant late-stage visit by the host country as negotiators finalize a climate deal. This visit underscores Brazil's commitment to addressing climate change during the crucial negotiations.

A large Russian drone and missile barrage on Ukraine's western city of Ternopil killed at least 25 people, including three children, according to authorities. This attack occurred as President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited Turkey seeking diplomatic support against Russia's invasion.