WWI soldiers' messages in a bottle found on Australian beach

Two suspects in the Louvre heist have been apprehended by authorities, according to the Paris prosecutor. These individuals, believed to have broken into the iconic museum, were found living on the outskirts of the French capital. This development is significant as it highlights ongoing efforts to enhance security at cultural landmarks and the swift action taken by law enforcement in response to such high-profile crimes.

French lawmakers have taken a significant step by voting on amendments to next year's budget bill that aim to increase taxes on multinational corporations. This includes doubling the existing digital tax on global tech giants and introducing a minimum tax rate of 25% on profits earned in France. While this move reflects the government's intent to ensure fair taxation, the amendments face uncertainty as they may be challenged in the conservative-controlled Senate. This situation highlights the ongoing debate over corporate taxation in France and its implications for international businesses operating in the country.

Two men have been arrested in connection with a daring jewel heist at the Louvre museum in France, facing serious charges of theft and conspiracy. This incident, involving a sophisticated break-in with a cherry-picker truck, has captured public attention due to the staggering value of the stolen jewellery, estimated at over $102 million. The ongoing investigation highlights the vulnerabilities even in world-renowned institutions, raising concerns about security and the potential impact on tourism and cultural heritage.

France has taken a significant step by enshrining the need for consent into its rape law, a change that gained momentum after the shocking mass rape trial last year. This legislative update is crucial as it reflects a growing recognition of the importance of consent in sexual offenses, aiming to better protect victims and hold perpetrators accountable. The move is seen as a vital advancement in the fight against sexual violence, resonating with advocates and the public alike.

Corruption has long been a troubling issue in French politics, but the recent case of Nicolas Sarkozy highlights its alarming scale and severity. Dr. David Lees emphasizes the shocking abuse faced by Judge Nathalie Gavarino, who oversaw Sarkozy's trial. This situation is significant as it not only reflects the deep-rooted corruption within the political system but also raises concerns about the treatment of those who seek justice. The public's trust in the legal system and political integrity is at stake, making this a crucial moment for France.

A new book delves into the 60-year-old mystery surrounding the disappearance of Moroccan politician Mehdi Ben Barka in Paris, just before a significant meeting with the French President. This gripping narrative not only uncovers new insights but also reignites discussions about political intrigue and historical events that have shaped relations between France and Morocco. The authors' findings are crucial as they shed light on a case that has puzzled many and highlights the ongoing impact of political disappearances.

France is on the verge of a significant legal change as its Senate prepares to approve a bill that will redefine rape and sexual assault to include a lack of consent. This move comes in the wake of the high-profile Gisèle Pelicot mass rape trial, highlighting the urgent need for stronger protections against sexual violence. The bill's passage marks a crucial step towards ensuring that consent is at the forefront of legal definitions, reflecting a societal shift towards prioritizing victims' rights.

Recently, messages in a bottle written by two Australian soldiers during World War I were discovered on an Australian beach, over a century after they were sent. One soldier's heartfelt request to deliver his letter to his mother in Wilkawatt, now a ghost town, adds a poignant touch to this historical find. This discovery not only sheds light on personal stories from the war but also connects us to the past, reminding us of the sacrifices made by those who served.

President Trump has announced that he has directed the Pentagon to begin testing nuclear weapons on an equal footing with Russia and China. This move raises significant concerns about escalating tensions and a potential arms race among these major powers, which could have serious implications for global security and stability.

In a significant development, Donald Trump and Xi Jinping met in South Korea during the Apec summit, marking their first face-to-face discussion since 2019. This meeting comes at a crucial time as both leaders aim to ease tensions stemming from the trade war. Notably, U.S. officials indicated that Trump might not follow through on a recent threat to impose a hefty import tax on Chinese goods, while China appears open to relaxing export controls on rare earths and resuming soybean purchases from the U.S. This dialogue is essential for fostering better trade relations and could pave the way for a more stable economic partnership between the two nations.

Barnaby Joyce, a prominent figure in Australian politics, is facing serious allegations after a formal complaint was lodged by a staffer from the Nationals party. Joyce has denied claims of a 'verbal tirade,' which raises concerns about workplace conduct within political circles. This situation is significant as it highlights ongoing tensions in Australian politics, particularly regarding the interactions between major parties like Labor and the Greens over environmental legislation. The outcome of this complaint could have implications for Joyce's political career and the broader political landscape in Australia.

Queensland is set to establish a public register of sex offenders, a move that Bruce and Denise Morcombe, parents of the late Daniel Morcombe, hope will inspire other states to follow suit. This initiative, known as 'Daniel's Law', aims to publicly name certain child sexual abusers, enhancing community safety and awareness. The Morcombes believe that a national approach to this issue is crucial, as it could help protect children and prevent future abuse. Their advocacy highlights the importance of transparency in dealing with offenders and the need for stronger measures to safeguard vulnerable populations.

US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping are meeting in Busan, South Korea, marking a significant moment in international relations. This summit is crucial as it provides an opportunity for both leaders to discuss pressing global issues and strengthen ties between the two nations, which can have far-reaching implications for trade, security, and diplomacy.

Hurricane Melissa has caused significant devastation across the Caribbean, with four confirmed deaths in Jamaica and dozens more in Haiti. The storm has turned parts of Jamaica into disaster zones, prompting warnings in areas like Bermuda. This situation is critical as it highlights the increasing severity of hurricanes in the region, raising concerns about preparedness and response efforts.