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Europe Scorched by Record Heatwave: France and Italy Take Emergency Measures

As a blistering heatwave tightens its grip on Europe, countries are scrambling to protect citizens from soaring temperatures and mounting health risks. France has shuttered over 1,350 schools  and closed the top floor of the Eiffel Tower as temperatures surged past 40°C (104°F)  in several regions. Sixteen French departments are now under the highest heat alert, with authorities urging people to stay hydrated and indoors during peak hours. Meanwhile, Italy has imposed restrictions on outdoor work , particularly in agriculture and construction, during the hottest parts of the day. Cities like Rome, Milan, and Venice are under red alerts, with hospitals reporting a spike in heat-related illnesses. The Mediterranean Sea has also hit record highs, with waters in Spain’s Balearic Sea reaching 30°C , up to 6 degrees above average. Scientists warn that Europe—already warming at twice the global average —is facing increasingly frequent and intense heatwaves due to climate change. New ...
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Canada to Meet NATO’s 2% Defence Spending Target Ahead of Schedule


Prime Minister Mark Carney is set to announce that Canada will meet NATO’s defence spending benchmark of 2% of GDP by the end of the current fiscal year. This marks a significant shift from previous projections, which had set the target for 2032.  

Carney’s announcement, expected in Toronto today, will outline a new defence industrial strategy aimed at strengthening Canada’s military capabilities through homegrown production. The plan includes acquiring more drones, armoured vehicles, aircraft, and underwater sensors, with a particular focus on Arctic surveillance.  

Additionally, military personnel are expected to receive a pay raise, fulfilling a promise made during the last election campaign. Another major change will see the Canadian Coast Guard fully integrated into the Department of National Defence, a move that aligns Canada with other NATO allies.  

This announcement comes ahead of the NATO leaders’ summit in The Hague, where discussions on increasing defence spending beyond 2% are expected to take place. Canada has faced criticism in the past for failing to meet NATO’s spending target, but this new commitment signals a shift in priorities under Carney’s leadership.  

The defence spending increase is expected to exceed billions of dollars, ensuring Canada not only meets but potentially surpasses NATO’s current benchmark in the coming years.  

Carney’s speech today will provide further details on the timeline and implementation of this ambitious plan, setting the stage for Canada’s enhanced role in global security.

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