Global Headlines: Protests, Political Tensions, and Conflicts

This summary highlights pressing world news, including potential protests at the Paris Olympics if Macron blocks a left-wing governance, NATO's support for Ukraine amid Biden's presidential race pressure, a fire at Rouen cathedral, Erdogan accusing Biden of complicity in Israeli war crimes, and the Burkina Faso junta's draft law to criminalize homosexuality.

Following is a summary of current world news briefs.

A top French trade union leader on Thursday urged President Emmanuel Macron to let a left-wing alliance govern after it came first in a legislative election, hinting that any alternative could be met with protests during the Paris Olympics. Macron responded by calling for republican forces to form a solid majority to govern.

NATO leaders will end their summit on Thursday with a focus on backing Ukraine and countering the growing Russian threat. U.S. President Joe Biden faces increased pressure from within his Democratic party to drop his re-election bid, but plans to address the press about his candidacy and NATO's agenda.

The spire of Rouen cathedral in northern France caught fire on Thursday. Firefighters are working to ensure the blaze is completely extinguished, with chief Stephane Gouezec stating that it may take an hour to control any remaining hot spots.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan accused U.S. President Joe Biden and his administration of complicity in alleged Israeli war crimes in Gaza. Erdogan called for sanctions against Israel during an interview at the NATO summit.

Residents of Gaza City remain trapped in their homes amid an intense new Israeli assault, while Washington pushes for a truce at talks in Egypt and Qatar. Hamas militants warn that the heavy assault could jeopardize peace negotiations.

President Joe Biden will address the press on Thursday, attempting to quell concerns about his age and mental acuity following a stumbling debate performance. Biden's advisers will meet with Democratic senators to solidify support for his re-election campaign.

Iran's acting foreign minister confirmed that indirect nuclear talks with the U.S. are ongoing via Oman. The comments followed the White House's statement that it is not yet ready to resume direct nuclear talks with Iran's new administration.

A U.S. plan to deploy long-range missiles in Germany has garnered mixed reactions. The agreement, announced at the NATO summit, aims to enhance European security but has raised fears of antagonizing Russia and triggering an arms race.

Taiwan has intensified its monitoring of Chinese military activities, labeling them a threat to regional stability. The announcement coincides with a NATO summit where China is identified as a key enabler of Russia in its war on Ukraine and a systemic challenge to Europe's security.

Burkina Faso's military junta adopted a draft law to criminalize homosexuality. The West African nation, one of few on the continent permitting same-sex relations, moves towards more punitive measures as part of the amended family code.

(With inputs from agencies.)