News

Macron lands in Ukraine following meeting with Russia’s Putin

Published

4 years ago

February 8, 2022

French President Emmanuel Macron has landed in Kyiv for high stakes talks following his summit with Russian President Putin

Macron arrived in Kyiv prepared to compromise with Ukraine officials to hopefully cool off tensions between it and neighbouring Russia.

The French President’s arrival into Ukraine come after he held a meeting over dinner with Russian President Vladimir Putin, hopeful that he could be the mediator to cool escalating tensions.

According to a statement by the Kremlin, Macron and Putin’s conversation got underway by discussing trade between France and Russia which fell during the pandemic by 15 percent.

Talks with President of France Emmanuel Macron https://t.co/kP4bXUKPgl pic.twitter.com/BwoGCIlLIs
— President of Russia (@KremlinRussia_E) February 7, 2022

Putin acknowledged Macon’s concerns regarding the rise in tensions on the Ukraine border, following Moscow’s heavy troop presence.

“I understand that we share concerns about security developments in Europe, and I want to thank you for the fact that France invariably and strongly participates in the development of fundamental decisions in this area.”
Putin said.

But the Russian President remained firm on his stance regarding Ukraine’s alliance with NATO, and according to journalist Denis Kazakiewicz, the meeting failed at its main objectives with the Kremlin more “aggressive” following the dinner.

#BREAKING: Journalist @Den_2042 reveals talks between #Russia's President #Putin and French President Macron have FAILED with Putin now "more aggressive" and chance of war "growing even more" pic.twitter.com/saKODfyNoc
— ticker NEWS (@tickerNEWSco) February 8, 2022

Macron had been hopeful that he could persuade Putin to head towards a de-escalation of tensions.

“I think today’s conversation can pave the way to de-escalation, which is where we should be heading. We are aware of the military-political situation and the Ukraine issue. You noted its importance, including the Normandy format, security issues in Belarus and the entire region, as well as important collective security issues, which we will cover later.”
MACRON SAID.

“I am glad we have this opportunity to discuss these issues in depth, so that we can collectively begin to develop a practical response for Russia and the whole of Europe. A useful and practical response would be one that helps avoid war and build stability, transparency and trust for all.”
MACRON SAID.

Macron’s arrival into Ukraine will now involve high-stakes talks with President Volodymyr Zelensky, who has thanked Western Nations for their support.

News

Australia issues evacuation advisory for diplomats and citizens in the Middle East

Australian diplomats’ families in Israel and Lebanon urged to evacuate amid rising tensions; all Australians advised to leave soon.

Published

2 days ago

February 26, 2026

Harvey Vargas

Australian diplomats’ families in Israel and Lebanon urged to evacuate amid rising tensions; all Australians advised to leave soon.

Families of Australian diplomats in Israel and Lebanon have been ordered to evacuate as tensions in the region continue to rise. The government is prioritising the safety of its personnel and their families.

All other Australians have been urged to leave while commercial flights and other travel options are still available. Authorities are emphasising the importance of acting quickly before options become limited.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has warned that the security situation in the Middle East remains unpredictable and volatile.

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News

Trump signals possible action on Iran nuclear threat

Trump warns Iran on nuclear weapons and highlights threats, as US boosts military presence amid stalled talks.

Published

2 days ago

February 26, 2026

Harvey Vargas

Trump warns Iran on nuclear weapons and highlights threats, as the US boosts military presence amid stalled talks.

President Donald Trump laid out a strong warning to Iran during his State of the Union address. He labelled Tehran as the world’s biggest sponsor of terrorism and signalled that the U.S. might take action if Iran continues its nuclear ambitions.

Trump emphasised that Iran’s missile and nuclear programs, along with its backing of militant groups, pose serious threats to regional stability.

This comes amid growing concerns over Iran’s nuclear developments and the stalled diplomatic efforts to curb them.

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News

Qantas announces 8,500 jobs and frequent flyer changes

Qantas announces 8500 new jobs and frequent flyer program revamp after record half-year profit of $1.46 billion

Published

2 days ago

February 26, 2026

Ahron Young

Qantas announces 8500 new jobs and frequent flyer program revamp after record half-year profit of $1.46 billion

In Short:
– Qantas reported a $1.46 billion half-year profit, planning to create 8,500 jobs by 2030.
– Frequent Flyer program changes include earning status credits on the ground and rolling over excess credits.

The Qantas Group reported a record half-year profit of $1.46 billion for the first half of the 2026 financial year, an increase of $71 million compared to the previous period. The airline plans to create 8,500 jobs by 2030 and re-establish a cabin crew base in Singapore, along with new initiatives for frequent flyers.Statutory profit after tax rose to $925 million, allowing shareholders to receive a fully franked dividend of 19.8 cents per share.

The current underlying profit surpasses the record set in 2023 under former CEO Alan Joyce. Chief executive Vanessa Hudson highlighted a commitment to customer, employee, and shareholder satisfaction while emphasizing ongoing investments in fleet renewal.

As Qantas adds new aircraft to its fleet, it anticipates the creation of jobs, including 3,500 additional cabin crew and 1,000 pilots.

A new Jetstar cabin crew base will open in Perth later this year, generating 90 roles, while Singapore is expected to accommodate 400 cabin crew members.

Qantas CEo Vanessa Hudson.

Frequent Flyer Changes

Qantas will implement significant changes to its Frequent Flyer program. Members can now earn status credits on the ground through credit cards and program partners.

They will also have the option to rollover up to 50% of excess status credits from one year to the next.

Hudson stated the overhaul aims to enhance flexibility and recognition for members amid a changing loyalty landscape.