France maintained its AA- credit rating from Fitch despite fiscal concerns, providing economic relief. The morning focused on Ukraine diplomacy, with Starmer hosting a virtual summit of 25 allied nations. The British PM insisted Putin would "sooner or later" need to negotiate, while Macron demanded "clear pressure" on Russia, stating Moscow "doesn't appear to sincerely want peace."
Domestic security issues emerged with a 22-year-old man under deportation order arrested after threatening police with a knife in Cannes. Interior Minister Retailleau threatened resignation if forced to "yield" on Algerian expulsions.
The missing teenager Yero was found in Pau eight days after disappearing from Villejuif, bringing relief to his family who feared violence against him.
The evening culminated with France's rugby team defeating Scotland 35-16 to claim the Six Nations title, while singer Louane revealed "Maman" as France's Eurovision entry.