US inflation climbed to 3.7% in the year to September, surpassing economic predictions. Elevated motor fuel costs were identified as the primary driver behind the unexpected increase, presenting a fresh challenge ahead of the upcoming midterm elections.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has commenced a four-day visit to India, focusing on energy sales to mitigate the impact of the Strait of Hormuz closure. India, heavily reliant on energy imports, faces significant challenges as shipping through the strait has nearly ceased following US-Israeli attacks on Iran in February. This visit also navigates ongoing trade disputes and differing accounts of last year's India-Pakistan conflict mediation.
Edouard Philippe, a former prime minister under Emmanuel Macron, is currently positioned as the leading candidate capable of defeating far-right populists Marine Le Pen or Jordan Bardella in the 2027 French presidential election, according to recent opinion polls.
