Stories from Paris · France

Bruno Retailleau has characterized proposed changes as a violation of the French Constitution.

Jean-Jacques Urvoas, a public law professor, published a ten-page note through the Jean-Jorès Foundation addressing former Socialist Party colleagues. Urvoas stated that presenting a Socialist candidate for the 2027 presidential election would be futile.

An appeal hearing is taking place regarding suspicions of Libyan funding for Nicolas Sarkozy's 2007 presidential campaign. Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy returned to court on Wednesday for an appeal trial regarding alleged Libyan financing of his 2007 election campaign. Sarkozy is expected to respond to recent letters from former Secretary General Claude Guéant that contradict his previous statements. Guéant was unable to attend the hearing due to illness but provided two letters to the court. Nicolas Sarkozy previously received a five-year prison sentence for criminal association in a first-instance ruling. The trial is expected to continue until early June. Former collaborator Claude Guéant, who is excused from attending the health-related trial, sent a three-page letter to the court on Sunday.

The film Prada 2 has generated nearly $40 million in economic benefits for brands. The production features cerulean blue dresses, a style originally created by Oscar de la Reine in 2002. The film's box office performance is described as an enormous success. The production cost approximately $340,000. The film's soundtrack has achieved success alongside the movie. Younger audiences are reportedly frequenting theaters to see the film.

Amadeus has agreed to purchase a business unit from Idemia for 1.2 billion euros. Amadeus has committed EUR 1.2 billion to Idemia to integrate biometric technology into airport operations. The investment aims to enable seamless travel from curb to seat through enhanced security and faster passenger queues. The company operates the world's largest travel booking system.

TotalEnergies reported a profit of 5.4 billion euros. Prices are set at 1.4 euros for gasoline and 2.25 euros for diesel. The group will also offer slight discounts on weekends including May 1, May 8, and Ascension Day. The Prime Minister described the measure as moving in a positive direction. The French government has been applying pressure to the company's management for several weeks. Marine Le Pen has called for taxing companies that profit from external contexts, specifically citing the blockage of the Strait of Hormuz during the war in Iran. TotalEnergies previously implemented voluntary fuel price caps in March and April. The company also increased its dividend by 5.9 percent. This financial performance comes as French citizens face challenges with fuel costs.

Cécile Rabbe-Vebert, director of the music rights organization SACEM, is leading a petition for a new law regarding artificial intelligence. The proposed legislation seeks to establish a presumption of use for cultural content in AI training.

French fighter pilots have returned to ground following missions in the Middle East. Pilots reported a sense of pride in protecting French interests in the region.

Socialist, ecologist, and communist parties in France have agreed to present a single candidate per constituency. This agreement follows the formation of the New Popular Front alliance in June 2024. The move aims to unify the left against the rise of far-right political success.

Claude Guéant's written testimonies have challenged the defense in Nicolas Sarkozy's appeal trial regarding the Libyan case. One individual involved in the case has become a witness, leading to speculation that judges may show leniency during the appeal process. Former President Nicolas Sarkozy appeared in court Wednesday for his appeal trial regarding alleged Libyan financing of his 2007 campaign. Sarkozy stated that memory can evolve regarding facts from 19 years ago. Guéant, a former collaborator and co-defendant, is absent from the trial due to illness. Guéant is lying, but perhaps his memory has evolved for the sake of peace." Sarkozy said Guéant's presumption of innocence and expressed concern regarding his health. Lawyer Claude Guéant has challenged the defense strategy used in the Nicolas Sarkozy case involving Libyan matters.