Inti Landauro

French streamers Safine Hamadi and Owen Cenazandotti were convicted by a Nice court for inflicting violence and inciting hatred against Raphael Graven, known online as Jean Pormanove, during livestreams on Kick. Hamadi received an 18-month suspended sentence and a €5,000 fine, while Cenazandotti received a two-year suspended sentence and a €15,000 fine; both were barred from posting on social networks for six months. The court did not convict them of manslaughter because prosecutors said Graven’s death was probably caused by poor health and a fragile heart. Kick is under formal investigation, while the case has intensified calls in France for stronger regulation and moderation of online content.

French electronic music producer and DJ Kavinsky, whose real name was Vincent Belorgey, was found dead at his home in Paris at age 50. The Paris prosecutor's office opened an inquiry after first responders found no suspicious circumstances; a police source cited by Le Figaro suggested a possible stroke following several days of headaches. Known for the song “Nightcall,” featured in the film Drive, Kavinsky also performed it at the finale of the 2024 Paris Olympics. Emmanuel Macron, The Weeknd and Culture Minister Catherine Pégard led tributes praising his influence and lasting contribution to French music.

French DJ and musician Kavinsky, whose real name was Vincent Belorgey, was found dead at his Paris home at age 50. The Paris prosecutor's office has opened an inquiry into the cause of death, with initial reports indicating no suspicious circumstances. Kavinsky was best known for the 2010 song “Nightcall,” which gained international prominence through the film Drive, and he recently performed it at the closing ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. Emmanuel Macron, The Weeknd and culture minister Catherine Pégard were among those who paid tribute.

More than 10,000 residents were evacuated in southern France as a rapidly spreading wildfire threatened towns near the Spanish border, injuring several people and burning thousands of hectares. The European Union deployed aircraft and additional firefighters to support French crews. The blaze affected the Tour de France by forcing closure of its third stage to allow emergency access. Hot, dry conditions linked to early heatwaves and accelerated regional warming heightened vulnerability, while authorities in Spain arrested a suspect in connection with a related fire.

A major wildfire near Trevillach in southern France has forced more than 10,000 people to evacuate and led officials to bar spectators from the nearby Tour de France stage to allow emergency access. Fueled by strong winds and early-season heatwaves, the fire has burned 4,600 hectares and injured 16 people. The European Union deployed aircraft and firefighters to support local crews, while extreme heat continues across France, Spain and Portugal. Authorities in Catalonia arrested a contractor suspected of accidentally igniting a related fire, as additional blazes in Spain and Portugal prompted further evacuations.

Euroclear filed a lawsuit in a Belgian court to block the enforcement of a Russian ruling ordering it to pay €220 billion in damages for freezing Russian assets under EU sanctions. The company argues Russian courts lack jurisdiction and that it acted in compliance with European law, which protects it from the Moscow decision’s practical enforcement within the EU. The Bank of Russia is preparing its legal response and may attempt to target Euroclear assets in non‑EU jurisdictions considered friendly to Russia. Roughly two‑thirds of the €300 billion in frozen Russian foreign assets are held at Euroclear, and the dispute escalates amid EU discussions about using frozen Russian funds to support Ukraine.

A trainee-driven bus collided with a parked vehicle and fell into the River Seine in Juvisy-sur-Orge, south of Paris, where all four people on board were safely rescued. The mayor expressed shock at the incident and praised the quick response of police and emergency services. Île-de-France Mobilités requested an internal investigation to determine the cause of the crash as divers confirmed no one else was trapped in the submerged vehicles.

A trainee driver crashed a bus into the River Seine in Juvisy-sur-Orge near Paris, with all four occupants safely rescued. Authorities confirmed no additional victims were inside the recovered vehicle. The town’s mayor praised emergency responders for their rapid action, and Île-de-France Mobilités will investigate the cause of the accident.

The EU Court of Justice upheld a ruling that annulled the European Commission’s approval of Lufthansa’s Covid-era state aid, strengthening Ryanair’s long-running challenge to the bailout. Ryanair urged repayment of 200 million euros, while Lufthansa noted an ongoing Commission investigation that may lead to a new decision. The ruling arrives as Lufthansa faces labor disputes, strike-related disruptions and operational cuts, including 20,000 short‑haul flight cancellations and the withdrawal of 27 CityLine aircraft.

A high‑speed train collided with a truck carrying military equipment at a level crossing near Calais, killing the train driver and injuring several others. Transport minister Philippe Tabarot confirmed the incident and planned to visit the scene, while SNCF reported resulting traffic disruptions.

A high‑speed train collided with a military equipment truck at a level crossing near Calais, killing the train driver and injuring several others. Transport minister Philippe Tabarot confirmed the crash and announced he would visit the site. SNCF reported that rail traffic between Bethune and Lens was suspended following the accident.

Oil prices climbed above $110 per barrel as the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz intensified market volatility and fears of a worsening energy crisis. International Energy Agency chief Fatih Birol warned that the disruption surpasses past major crises, with developing nations facing the greatest risk from rising energy and food costs. The closure of the strait following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran heightened inflation concerns and fueled a global risk-off mood. Markets fluctuated across Asia, Europe and the U.S., while investors awaited the outcome of negotiations tied to a deadline set by President Donald Trump. Global stocks wavered as traders assessed escalating geopolitical tensions and the ongoing energy shock.

French prosecutors opened a hate speech investigation into CNews following complaints by Bally Bagayoko, the first Black mayor of Saint-Denis, over alleged racist remarks made on-air in late March. The case highlights broader criticism of CNews and other outlets in the Bolloré media group for content that opponents say amplifies far-right narratives. A separate probe was launched into possible cyberbullying of Bagayoko, who is affiliated with the France Unbowed party. French law provides significant penalties for racial slurs and cyberbullying.

The European Commission warned Slovakia that its new diesel restrictions, including limits on refuelling and higher prices for foreign‑registered vehicles, violate EU single‑market rules and constitute discrimination. Slovakia introduced the measures for 30 days amid supply concerns driven by the Iran war and disruptions to the Druzhba pipeline. The policy allows differentiated pricing based on neighbouring countries’ averages and restricts exports and fuel volumes. The situation unfolds as other countries take steps to manage fuel costs, including Hungary’s price caps and Orlen’s reduced margins in Poland. In the UK, Michael Shanks said there was no fuel shortage and advised motorists to maintain normal driving habits despite conservation guidance from the International Energy Agency.

Brussels’ Midi Station was evacuated after suspicious bags were discovered in a train and on a platform, prompting police and an army explosives unit to investigate and forcing a halt to rail traffic. The shutdown disrupted travel across Belgium and temporarily closed the adjacent metro station. The incident occurred a day after the tenth anniversary of the Brussels terror attacks, heightening security sensitivity.

Brussels’ Midi station was evacuated after police found two suspicious bags, halting all train traffic and closing the adjacent metro station while an anti-explosive unit investigated. The disruption followed commemorations of the 2016 Brussels terror attacks, heightening sensitivity to security threats. Railway operator SNCB reported a complete standstill of services pending police updates.

An early‑morning arson attack on a Rotterdam synagogue caused no injuries and remains under police investigation, with no arrests reported. Authorities are treating it as part of a rise in suspected antisemitic incidents following heightened US‑Israel‑Iran tensions, alongside recent attacks on synagogues in Belgium and Michigan. Concerns are increasing globally about risks to Jewish communities amid escalating geopolitical strain.

Belgian baritone Jose van Dam has died at age 85, with the Queen Elisabeth Music Chapel announcing his peaceful passing. Renowned for performances at major opera houses and his long career beginning in the 1960s, he collaborated frequently with conductor Herbert von Karajan and sang at the funerals of Belgium’s King Boudewijn and Queen Fabiola. His notable film appearances included roles in Don Giovanni and The Music Teacher, and tributes highlighted his stature as a major figure in opera across two centuries.

American visits to France rose 17 percent in 2025 despite worsening political tensions between the Trump administration and European governments and a weakening US dollar. France recorded 102 million foreign tourists, surpassing the previous year's Olympic-driven numbers, with US tourists contributing significantly to increased spending. Tourism officials highlighted France’s continued global appeal, while European analysts forecast a decline in US travel to Europe in 2026, expecting growth instead from Chinese and Indian visitors. Early 2026 booking trends from countries like Mexico and China appeared strong, though comparable US data was not disclosed.

A water leak in the Louvre Museum’s Denon gallery damaged a ceiling in a room housing works by Charles Meynier and Bernardino Luini, though the Mona Lisa was unaffected. The incident occurred amid broader challenges for the museum, including a major ticket fraud investigation that has led to nine arrests and a recent high-value jewellery heist that exposed security vulnerabilities. Staff strikes in December also highlighted concerns over crowding and staffing levels at the institution.

French authorities arrested four additional suspects tied to the high-value jewel heist at the Louvre, where thieves stole about $102 million in historic pieces using rapid forced entry. The stolen jewels remain missing as investigators continue their search. Museum director Laurence des Cars announced major security upgrades, including new surveillance cameras, anti-intrusion systems, and a dedicated security coordinator role.

French police arrested four additional suspects in the high-value Louvre jewel heist, bringing the total detained to eight, though the $102 million worth of jewels remains missing. The stolen items include historic pieces linked to Napoleon and several 19th-century royals. The robbery exposed significant security weaknesses at the museum, prompting director Laurence des Cars to announce more than 20 emergency measures, including new surveillance cameras, anti-intrusion systems and the creation of a security coordinator role. The thieves accessed the Apollo Gallery in under eight minutes using power tools to break display cases.

A daylight heist at the Louvre resulted in the theft of jewels worth about $102 million after thieves used a crane to break through a second-floor window that was not covered by CCTV. Louvre director Laurence des Cars acknowledged major security lapses, noting inadequate exterior camera coverage and previous warnings about vulnerabilities. She offered her resignation, which Culture Minister Rachida Dati declined. The incident has prompted nationwide reviews of museum security, following several recent museum robberies across France, including the theft of gold nuggets from the Museum of Natural History.

Emmanuel Macron is preparing to appoint a new prime minister within 48 hours as France faces a deep political crisis and struggles to advance its budget. Outgoing prime minister Sebastien Lecornu reported that most lawmakers oppose a snap election and that a budget agreement remains possible. Parties remain divided on who should lead the government, with the left calling for a leftist premier, the Republicans rejecting that option, and far-left and far-right leaders demanding either Macron’s resignation or new elections. The ongoing deadlock has unsettled markets, though investors remain cautiously optimistic that a budget deal can be reached.

Aena plans €12.88 billion in airport modernisation from 2027 to 2031 as passenger numbers continue to rise, with Madrid and Barcelona nearing capacity. Shares dipped following the announcement, but the operator expects sustained growth and increasing intercontinental connectivity. The Spanish cabinet will review the investment plan in October. Vueling will expand winter capacity with nearly 1.5 million seats after Ryanair’s withdrawal from regional airports, adding routes and increasing presence in Santiago and Tenerife amid strong tourism growth nationwide.

Argentina’s president Javier Milei intensified diplomatic tensions with Spain by referring to Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez as a “local bandit” during an event in Madrid, echoing earlier remarks that caused a previous diplomatic dispute. Milei has repeatedly attacked Sanchez and his wife, Begona Gomez, prompting Spain to withdraw its ambassador earlier in the year. Gomez remains under preliminary investigation for alleged influence peddling, which she and Sanchez deny.

Austrian Eurovision winner JJ urged that Israel be excluded from the 2026 contest, aligning with similar calls tied to the Israel–Hamas war. His comments followed Israel’s continued participation in the 2025 competition, where Yuval Raphael, a survivor of the 7 October attack, won the televote. Pro‑Palestinian groups had similarly pressured the European Broadcasting Union ahead of the 2025 final. JJ also called for greater transparency in the vote-counting process. Tensions around Israel’s involvement persisted amid ongoing conflict in Gaza and political statements from figures such as Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez advocating cultural exclusion of Israel.

Spain ordered Airbnb to remove more than 65,000 non‑compliant holiday rentals amid rising concerns over housing costs and the impact of short‑term tourist accommodation, particularly in cities such as Madrid and Barcelona. The Consumer Rights Ministry cited missing licences and inaccurate records as key violations and framed the crackdown as part of a broader effort to address housing shortages and regulate the rental market. Airbnb defended its practices, arguing that authorities had not provided necessary compliance information and lacked jurisdiction over digital platforms.

Spain has ordered the removal of more than 65,000 unlicensed or non‑compliant holiday rentals amid a worsening housing affordability crisis, with Barcelona planning to eliminate all licensed short‑term rental apartments by 2028 to prioritise local residents. Consumer Minister Pablo Bustinduy emphasized the need to curb illegality in the sector, while Airbnb defended its hosting requirements and argued the ministry lacks authority over short‑term rentals.

Yolanda Diaz announced she will stop using X, citing Elon Musk’s gestures at Donald Trump’s inauguration and concerns about the platform promoting xenophobic and far‑right content. Musk dismissed criticism of his gesture, while the Anti‑Defamation League said it did not resemble a Nazi salute. Other members of Spain’s Sumar party will also leave the platform. German ministries and several universities have recently stopped using X, and The Guardian withdrew from the platform over concerns about toxic and extremist content.

Spain’s prime minister proposed banning non‑EU non‑residents from purchasing homes to address rising housing costs amid public protest over overtourism and rental pressures. The plan follows an earlier proposal to tax such purchases by up to 100 percent, though a government source suggested taxation remains the preferred approach. Real estate stakeholders warned that regulatory uncertainty could deter investment, while experts argued the policy would have limited impact on the overall market. Housing shortages continue to intensify, with the central bank projecting a deficit of 500,000 homes by year’s end, as foreign buyers, including Britons, maintain a notable presence in property transactions.

Spain has opened a disciplinary investigation into a major holiday rental platform for failing to remove thousands of unlicensed listings amid efforts to curb overtourism and address housing shortages. The Consumer Rights Ministry warns the platform could face significant fines. Barcelona has advanced the toughest measure with a planned ban on tourist rentals by 2028, which property owner associations are contesting in court. Airbnb argues the policies unfairly benefit hotels and have not alleviated housing pressures. Spain has expanded scrutiny to rental account managers, while other European countries are also tightening rules on tourism rentals.

Spain fined four major budget airlines a combined €150 million for charging extra fees for carry-on luggage, seat selection, boarding pass printing, and restricting cash payments. Consumer groups celebrated the ruling and expect other European countries to take similar action, while Spain’s airline association ALA argued the decision violates EU single market rules and harms passengers who travel with minimal baggage. Airlines signaled they may appeal, highlighting ongoing tensions between low-cost carriers’ pricing models and consumer protection efforts.

Record rainfall in central Spain caused severe flooding that left at least three people dead and three missing, with emergency services conducting rescues in the Toledo and Madrid regions. Streets turned into mud-filled torrents that swept away vehicles and damaged infrastructure, leading to closed roads, disrupted high-speed rail services and suspended subway lines. Rescue efforts focused on individuals swept away in rural areas, while army engineers were deployed to rebuild a bridge destroyed by overflowing riverbanks.

A recruitment call for 30 female train drivers in Saudi Arabia received 28,000 applications, reflecting growing demand for women’s employment opportunities as restrictions ease. Renfe is selecting candidates through assessments and will provide a year of paid training before the women operate bullet trains between Mecca and Medina. Female workforce participation has nearly doubled in recent years, though unemployment remains significantly higher for women than men. The hiring drive coincides with Saudi Arabia promoting gender reforms while facing continued international scrutiny over its human rights record, including past crackdowns on women’s rights activists and the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

Spain plans to require streaming platforms to allocate 6 percent of their content to regional languages as part of a budget agreement with Catalonia’s ERC party, alongside a new 5 percent audiovisual production tax. The measure, announced by ERC lawmaker Gabriel Rufian, aims to strengthen Catalan, Galician and Basque language use, though it remains unclear whether original content or dubbing will be required.

Spain will end its mandatory outdoor mask rule on 26 June following declining COVID-19 infection rates and rising vaccination levels, with the cabinet set to approve the measure on 24 June. The shift follows similar moves in France and comes amid ongoing tension between Spain’s central government and regional authorities, who manage healthcare and have recently pushed for easing restrictions. Falling case numbers and reduced strain on hospitals have supported the decision.

Spain’s delivery of Pfizer’s Covid‑19 vaccine was delayed by a day due to a temperature‑control issue during loading, which Pfizer resolved. Vaccines are now expected to arrive on Tuesday. The delay follows similar temperature‑related issues affecting shipments in parts of Germany. BioNTech outlined storage limits for the mRNA vaccine, which requires ultra‑low temperatures and GPS‑tracked cool boxes for transport.

Spain requires masks in most public spaces as it eases one of Europe’s strictest lockdowns, mandating their use indoors and outdoors when distancing is not possible. The country’s death toll and case numbers remain high, though daily fatalities have slowed sharply. The government seeks a two‑week extension of the state of emergency while facing opposition resistance and small nightly protests against restrictions. Regional rules vary as limited reopening begins, and quarantine for overseas arrivals is maintained. Pedro Sanchez urges continued unity to preserve progress in reducing infections.