Europe

UK standby rules could make smart TVs take longer to switch on

The UK government is consulting on new standby and off-mode rules for smart household devices, including televisions. The proposals would cap how much power products use while idle, with the government saying the change could reduce wasted electricity and household bills. But smart TVs may take longer to restart, and ministers say aligning the standards with EU rules would help manufacturers serve both markets under the same requirements.

Oct 25

Ukraine’s Starlink Satellite Speeds Return to Normal

Ukraine’s government said Starlink and its military version, Starshield, were operating at pre-restriction speeds after more than a week of disruption. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the restored connection mattered for frontline logistics and defense against jet-powered Shahed drones. The cause of the slowdown remains unclear, with conflicting accounts about who ordered the limits.

France Deploys 70,000 Security Personnel for Protests

France deployed about 70,000 police and security personnel as protests over school conditions and the cost of living spread nationwide. Authorities reported nearly 1,000 arrests on Saturday, while restrictions on demonstrations and closures in Paris drew criticism. The marches followed deadly clashes and widespread damage during protests the previous weekend.

Clashes break between police and protesters in Paris

Police and protesters clashed in Paris after demonstrations over living costs and education remained largely peaceful earlier Saturday. France’s Interior Ministry said about 410,000 people joined protests nationwide, while union organizers estimated around 800,000. Authorities reported 135 arrests and seized weapons. In Paris, police used batons and tear gas, and the prosecutor’s office said 64 people were arrested.

EU Lifts Sanctions on Russian Sable Fur Imports Unanimously

The European Union has lifted its sanctions on Russian sable fur imports, with all 27 member states supporting the decision unanimously. The measure reverses restrictions imposed in April. The official document says industries in several European countries depend on the specialized product, for which Russia is the sole supplier. Ecologist Zhora Kavanosyan criticized the decision against the backdrop of concerns about fur farming’s environmental effects.

France Braces for Mass Protests as Arrests Reach 135

Tens of thousands joined demonstrations across France as police made 135 arrests, the interior minister said. Authorities imposed curfews, closures and protest bans in several cities after last weekend’s riots and looting. In Paris, a permitted rally drew demonstrators calling on President Emmanuel Macron to respond to their demands, while police said the city was calm.

Fallen Trees Disrupt Greater Anglia Services After Strong Winds

Fallen trees and strong winds disrupted rail services and caused power cuts in parts of eastern England. Greater Anglia cancelled several routes and warned passengers against travel on some lines until Sunday. UK Power Networks said most of about 2,500 properties affected near Bury St Edmunds had regained electricity overnight, while Network Rail teams responded to a tree on the line near Stansted Mountfitchet.

France’s EU funding debate puts pressure on Paris

France’s contribution to the European budget has become part of a tense debate over its draft 2027 budget, as EU governments negotiate the bloc’s 2028–2034 spending plan. A proposed cut would reduce the European Commission’s seven-year budget plan by 8 per cent. The dispute links France’s domestic fiscal pressures with decisions that will shape EU spending priorities.

Being 70% bigger mean major changes for Baldock

Plans for up to 3,200 homes east of Baldock have received outline planning permission, with construction expected to take at least 15 years. Developers say the scheme will bring jobs and facilities, while residents and village representatives warn about traffic, parking and pressure on nearby communities.

Network Rail Begins Nine-Day Hastings Line Closure for Track Work

A nine-day rail closure has begun between Tonbridge and Wadhurst, with buses replacing some trains and the disruption extending to Battle on the final day. Network Rail is renewing worn track in Grove Hill Tunnel and carrying out work at other sites. Some services remain unaffected, while passengers can use specified alternative routes and are advised to allow extra travel time.

France prepares day protest with 70,000 police deployed

France is preparing for nationwide protests Saturday, a week after severe unrest left shops looted and buildings burned. The interior ministry says 70,000 police officers will be deployed, while restrictions on demonstrations vary by city. Museums in Paris will close, and a Paris Saint-Germain match has been moved as authorities brace for further disruption.

Ruins of Limoges city hall expose France’s protest divide

The fire-damaged city hall in Limoges has become a defining image of protests over living costs and school conditions. Mayor Guillaume Guérin blames the French hard left, while young demonstrators argue that poverty and the pressures of daily life matter more. Two men have been arrested, and authorities have imposed overnight curfews and limits on gatherings in the city.

Prince William Reveals Once Dreamed of DJ and Police Work

Prince William said on The Graham Norton Show that he once considered becoming a policeman and later wanted to work as a DJ under the name “DJ Xara”. His appearance also focused on the Earthshot Prize, the environmental initiative he founded, and its upcoming awards ceremony in Mumbai.

France braces another weekend as protests test security

French authorities plan to deploy about 70,000 police officers across the country as protests are expected to return this weekend. A Paris demonstration called by a student union and joined by a major trade union has been authorized, while President Emmanuel Macron banned non-trade union protests on Saturday. Museums, the opera and metro stations will also close.

Russia, Ukraine agree local truce for aid in Oleshky

Russia and Ukraine have agreed to halt military operations in the occupied city of Oleshky from October 29, the White House said, allowing aid deliveries and preparations to evacuate civilians. The announcement comes as an estimated 2,000 people face severe shortages of food, water and electricity. Melania Trump said residents would receive support and transport to a destination of their choice.

Macron to Meet Student Groups as France Braces for Protests

French President Emmanuel Macron plans to meet high school student representatives as protests over education and living costs continue. Students are calling for better-funded schools, more teachers and a greater say in decisions affecting their future. Authorities expect further demonstrations and have announced tighter security measures, while the government says it will present an initial set of decisions at a meeting scheduled for Monday.

London weather warning storm disrupts rail and road travel

A yellow wind warning covered parts of London as Storm Austen brought heavy rain and gusts expected to exceed 40mph. Fallen trees disrupted rail services serving the capital, while cancellations and delays affected trains to Gatwick Airport. London Fire Brigade urged residents to secure loose items and take care on roads as the warning remained in force until 9pm.

Boom weight-loss drugs lead to Heineken pub sales warning

Heineken has warned British pubs that wider use of weight-loss drugs could reduce alcohol consumption and beer and cider sales. The brewer’s presentation recommends smaller servings, low- and no-alcohol drinks, and food pairings to help hospitality businesses respond to changing customer preferences. Heineken said it will keep monitoring how GLP-1 users’ behavior develops in 2027.

Your Your Projects Luxembourg: EU Backs Bats and Cities

Two EU-backed projects in Luxembourg focus on wildlife conservation and climate-neutral cities. LIFE Bats & Birds received a €2.5 million EU contribution to improve nesting and roosting sites for target species, while CLIMABOROUGH has about €11.0 million in EU funding to help cities test approaches to climate neutrality.

Winter Blackout Risk Rises as UK Power Buffer Shrinks

Britain’s National Energy System Operator forecasts a smaller reserve margin for winter than last year, even as it says supplies are expected to remain secure. The outlook depends in part on electricity imports from Europe, while the Government’s top energy official told MPs blackouts cannot be ruled out.

Cremer Says EU-Canada Partnership Needs Lasting Framework

European Parliament rapporteur Tobias Cremer says the EU’s proposed associate membership for Canada needs a lasting institutional framework, not just warmer rhetoric or a trade deal. His comments come ahead of a summit in Montreal, where the sides are expected to reach agreements on critical raw materials and digital cooperation.

France Braces for Fresh Protests as Security Measures Tighten

France is preparing for another round of demonstrations on Saturday after protests last weekend turned violent and included looting. The government has announced heightened security measures, while protesters remain determined to take to the streets. The unrest has also sharpened debate among EU leaders over migration, including Poland’s calls for tougher rules and tensions over the EU’s Migration Pact.

Inverurie town year makes: Scotland award follows revival

Inverurie has been named Scotland’s Town of the Year at the Scotland Loves Local Awards, with judges recognizing local support for businesses and a thriving town centre. The Aberdeenshire town beat four other shortlisted communities. Recent figures cited by the reports include a 10% rise in footfall in the year to January and a monthly farmers’ market that has doubled in size since 2024.