Seven Catalan Activist Sent To Jail
A judge charged seven Catalan activists with belonging to a terrorist organization and possessing explosives. He later jailed them on Thursday pending further investigation. Spain police arrested them on Monday. In addition, prosecutors allege they were planning violent acts in the coming weeks to seek independence for their region.
Two of the seven have told investigators they made and tested explosives, another source linked to the investigation said on Thursday. Also, the judge considered the indications that “the seven detained belong to an … organization that intends to establish the Catalan republic by any means, including violent ones”.
Former French President Jacques Chirac Passes Away
Former French president Jacques Chirac passed away at the age of 86. Chirac, who championed the EU, served two terms as president and an additional two as prime minister. However, corruption scandals plagued his later years. He died surrounded by his friends and family.
The French National Assembly observed a minute’s silence in his memory. In addition, current president Emmanuel Macron will give a speech in his honor. The lights illuminating the Eiffel Tower will be shut off one hour earlier to honor him as well.
Trump Asked Ukraine For Information About Biden
According to a telephone call released by the Trump administration, President Donald Trump pressed Ukraine’s leader to investigate Democratic presidential front-runner Joe Biden. This was in coordination with the U.S. attorney general and Trump’s personal lawyer. In addition, the summary came out a day after the Democratic-led chamber launched an official impeachment inquiry into Trump.
French Factory Fire Could Pollute The Seine
A fire at a chemical factory in the French city of Rouen could pollute the River Seine. In addition, schools in the area closed down and officials advised residents to remain inside as 200 firefighters, with 60 fire vehicles, tried to put out the blaze. Thick clouds of black smoke also billowed from the fire, though officials said tests showed the smoke was not toxic.
30 Killed In Chad Gold Mine Landslide
A landslide at an illegal gold mine in Chad killed around 30 people on Tuesday. The mine collapsed early that morning, and more people might still be trapped in the rubble. Illegal mining has become more of a problem, as refugees looking for quick money come to the region.
