By Marco Hugo Barsotti MHB 
Welcome to am1575news, the news bulletin of France24 and Radio Centrale Milano for Sunday 23 August 2026 in podcasting, on the medium wave and on franceoggi.com. In the newsroom in Nice Marco Hugo Barsotti, from Paris Rachel Costa.
News from France
Fiscal data leak: unions and politicians ask for clarification on DGFiP vulnerabilities
After the theft of information affecting almost 700 000 citizens and businesses, public finance employees and cybersecurity experts wonder how an intrusion could have escaped the controls of the Directorate General of Public Finances (DGFiP).
Amélie Verdier, DGFiP’s general director, said that as soon as the intrusion was detected “the cybercriminal was immediately removed from the system”. However, Fanny De Coster, general secretary of CGT Public Finances, asked: “How is it possible to have seen the intrusion without noticing the theft?”. Verdier admitted that the subsequent investigations “were unable to reconstruct what happened”.
The case prompted an apology from the Minister of Action and Public Accounts, David Amiel, but so far no concrete responsibility has been assigned. The Paris public prosecutor opened an investigation and the Prime Minister tasked ANSSI – the National Agency for the Security of Information Systems – with conducting a thorough audit to identify the causes of the incident.
At meetings between unions and management, concerns were dominated by the fear that the tax IT structure is “overwhelmed by a weakness we cannot identify”. Sandra Demarcq, secretary of Solidaires Public Finances, added: “They feel they do not understand why they were unable to see the theft”.
The phenomenon has been linked to the so‑called “technological debt” of the DGFiP: many systems, originally developed more than ten years ago, have not been updated with the latest software versions and security protocols. Richard Bordonneau, developer at DGFiP and secretary of the CGT DI‑SI Southwest section, explained that “applications are not born to last a year or two; what was secure ten years ago is no longer so”.
According to the Senate report of 2020 and subsequent Court of Auditors analyses, the ageing of systems is one of the main sources of vulnerability and IT project management continues to suffer from delays and costs exceeding expectations. The DGFiP’s performance contract foresees the reduction of technical debt as an “absolute priority” by 2027. Data show that while in 2021 only 31 % of applications and servers met technical standards, by the end of 2025 that percentage rose to 52.2 %, with a target of reaching 78 % by 2027.
Other obstacles are the shortage of qualified staff: almost 35 % of programmer positions opened in the last three competitions have not been filled and many experienced employees are approaching retirement. Fanny De Coster observed that “despite the overall budget shrinking, the employment curve has reversed”. The union warns, however, that the new efficiency scheme could translate into further cuts to IT personnel.
To address the emergency, Minister Sebastiano Lecornu proposed the release of 200 million euros for cybersecurity, a promise already made in April. However, deputy Philippe Latombe (MoDem, Vendée) called the measure “insufficient”, emphasizing the need for multi‑factor authentication, data‑flow tracking, and strengthening of human resources. CNIL, in its 2025 report on massive data breaches, specifically recommended the adoption of multi‑factor authentication for remote accesses, a recommendation still little applied in the DGFiP.
In response to the pressure, director Verdier announced, at the August 18 press conference, the launch by year‑end of systematic strong authentication for all agents and for all accesses to the tax systems.
Franceinfo, 23 August 2026
Fact Check by Gemma4.
Emmanuel Macron announces the dispatch of new interceptor missiles to Ukraine
French President Emmanuel Macron said on the evening of Saturday 22 August that he had authorized the sending of new interceptor missiles to Ukraine. The decision comes in response to recent violent Russian incursions, culminating on Friday night with an attack on a shopping centre that caused at least sixteen fatalities and numerous injuries. Macron called the attack “horrible” and emphasized the need to provide Kyiv with all the tools necessary to defend its airspace.
In the message posted on his X profile, the head of state expressed the “our terrible condemnation” of the latest Russian offensive and invited all countries with defensive capabilities to contribute to the collective effort. Later that day, Macron held a phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, reaffirming France’s commitment to support Kyiv, which suffers from a serious shortage of air‑defence systems against the continual launches of ballistic missiles and drones.
This new supply fits into the broader framework of military aid to Ukraine, at a time when civilian deaths are rising: according to the United Nations Human Rights Mission in Ukraine, July 2024 recorded the highest number of civilian casualties since the start of the conflict, with 437 deaths, a 30 % increase over June. The Ukrainian capital suffered at least 54 deaths and 202 injuries in the same month.
Next Monday the “volunteers coalition for Ukraine”, grouping the countries that have pledged support to Kyiv, will meet in Paris. The meeting will be co‑chaired by Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and, for the first time, the new British Prime Minister Andy Burnham.
franceinfo, 22/08/2026
Fact Check by Gemma4.
Rachel’s Editorial – The missile in monthly installments
I now read to you my editorial of today.
Macron announces, from his elegant throne in Versailles, the dispatch of new interceptor missiles to Ukraine, just in time for the next Instagram New Year. But isn’t it curious that the announcement comes while the French deficit exceeds 5 % and the coffers seem emptier than a shopping centre hit by a missile? If the future of European defence were a selfie, France is ready to post without filter, but to pay the bill?
There is talk of “horror” for the shopping‑centre massacre, but where is the orchestra that plays the melody of public accounts? The president promises “all necessary means” while citizens wonder whether “all” also includes debt reduction. Is it really easier to distribute missiles than to explain to the people why fuel prices rise faster than confidence in politics?
The “volunteers coalition” meeting on Monday looks more like a charity party for the powerful than a genuine concrete commitment. Macron, Merz and the new British prime minister position themselves as the three musketeers of the intervention, but who is the fourth? Perhaps the average spectator, forced to watch from afar while the money evaporates in a cloud of propaganda.
In summary, the announcement is an elegant play on words: “defending other skies” while the French sky is clouded by a deficit that knows no respite. If politics were a film, this would be a trailer without a plot, with plenty of special effects, but no credible ending. Perhaps it is time to stop being the DJ of international drama and start balancing the household accounts.
Koan of the day
A monk asked the Master: “If France sends missiles to Kyiv, but its wallet has more holes than a fishing net, where is justice?”
The Master replied: “Justice is a broken compass; who follows the north of their own interests will find only their shadow on the battlefield ground.”
The monk persisted: “Then, what is the true price of security when security is sold in installments on the market of promises?”
The Master smiled and said: “The true price is the peace bought with the silence of those who have nothing left to say, and the irony is that silence is often louder than cannons.”
But let’s return to the news.
Welcome to the international bulletin from FranciaOggi and Radio Centrale Milano for Sunday 23 August 2026 on FranciaOggi.com in podcasting and on the medium wave at 1575 kHz.
From Paris, I am Rachel Costa.
French President Emmanuel Macron welcomes Saudi Prince Mohammed bin Salman
President Emmanuel Macron received today and tomorrow the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Salman, as part of an official visit to Paris. The meetings, held at the Élysée Palace, will focus on Middle‑East tensions and economic cooperation between the two countries. Both leaders emphasized the importance of direct dialogue to manage energy crises and regional security issues.
Iran accuses the United States of “extraterritorial sovereignty” with the new sanctions
Iran’s foreign minister called the recent US sanctions a violation of sovereignty principles, denouncing them as an attempt to extend American control beyond its own borders. The statement came in response to additional restrictions aimed at targeting key sectors of the Iranian economy, including energy and international trade. Diplomatic ties remain tense, with Iran promising not to yield under external pressure.
Iran temporarily reopens Hormuz Channel transit to Iraq
After months of closure, the Iranian government authorized the passage of some Iraqi tankers through the Hormuz Channel, one of the most strategic routes for global oil trade. The limited opening aims to mitigate the economic impact on Iraq, which has been severely hit by a decline in profits from crude exports. International observers are closely assessing this move, which could signal a easing of regional tensions.
Tesla recalls 3 million vehicles in China over door‑handle problems
Tesla has launched a massive recall affecting about three million cars produced in China due to a defect in the door handles that could compromise the secure closure of the cabin. The manufacturer has informed Chinese authorities that it will intervene with software updates and mechanical replacements to ensure driver safety. The recall operation is one of the largest corrective initiatives in the automaker’s history.
Anthropic expands its enterprise division by acquiring a consulting firm
Anthropic’s enterprise unit, the artificial‑intelligence start‑up, has completed the acquisition of a consulting firm specialized in business solutions. The deal enables Anthropic to strengthen its offering for corporate clients, integrating implementation expertise and technical support. Analysts say the move bolsters the company’s position in the global AI services market.
Humanoid robot breaks the 100‑meter record, running in 9.39 seconds
During the World Humanoid Robot Games held in Beijing, a humanoid‑shaped robot completed the 100‑meter distance in 9.39 seconds, beating the record time of the planet’s fastest athlete. Engineers attributed the result to a combination of advanced control algorithms and high‑power actuators. The spectacle sparked great interest among robotics scholars, who see this breakthrough as a possible future for autonomous mobility.
Burger King outperforms rivals in the United States thanks to low‑price menu
American fast‑food chain Burger King recorded sales growth that surpasses that of major rivals such as Wendy’s, thanks to the introduction of lower‑priced menu items and targeted promotional campaigns. The company has revitalized its image by offering innovative products and seasonal promotions, contributing to a regained market share in the quick‑service restaurant sector. Food‑industry analysts note that the aggressive pricing strategy has restored consumer confidence.
Nvidia warns customers of a 17 % price increase for AI chips
Two major server‑solution providers have informed partners that Nvidia’s most advanced AI chips will see an average price increase of 17 percent in the coming months. The rise is attributed to higher raw‑material costs and the growing global demand for computing capacity. Industry experts warn that this increase could impact the budgets of data centres and research projects that rely on these technologies.
Weather Paris, Monaco Monte Carlo and Milan for Sunday 23 August 2026
Paris – Predominantly sunny day
The morning is cool with temperatures around 15°C, feels like 13°C, slightly cloudy sky and light south‑west wind at 15 km/h with gusts of 30 km/h.
In the afternoon the sun dominates, temperatures rise to 25°C with a feel of 27°C, wind slightly stronger at 15 km/h with gusts of 35 km/h, with no precipitation.
The evening maintains pleasant weather, 22°C, feels like 20°C, clear sky with light breezes of 15 km/h.
During the night temperatures drop to 17°C, feels like 14°C, partly cloudy sky and steady winds at 15 km/h.
The day’s thermal profile ranges from a minimum of 14°C to a maximum of 25°C, with moderate wind especially in the afternoon.
According to the analysis by “expert Régis Crêpet” conditions remain stable and free of rain risk.
Monaco Monte Carlo – Warm sun and light breezes
The morning in Monaco features a clear sky, temperature 23°C, feels like 24°C, very light west wind at 10 km/h with gusts of 15 km/h.
In the afternoon temperatures reach 28°C, feels like 36°C, slightly cloudy sky, east‑southeast wind at 10 km/h with possible gusts up to 20 km/h, no rain.
Sunset brings a slight coolness, 26°C, feels like 29°C, sky still mostly clear and light winds of 15 km/h.
During the night the thermometer drops to 23°C, feels like 25°C, clear sky and light winds of 10 km/h.
Temperatures oscillate between a minimum of 23°C and a maximum of 28°C, with light winds throughout the day.
The “Chaîne Météo expert” confirms no precipitation and a moderate UV index.
Milan – Stable weather and pleasant temperatures
The morning in Milan is clear, temperature 20°C, feels like 21°C, north wind at 5 km/h with light gusts.
In the afternoon temperatures rise to 28°C, feels like 28°C, east‑southeast wind at 4 km/h, dry conditions and predominantly slightly cloudy sky.
In the evening temperature hovers around 26°C, feels like 27°C, light east‑northeast winds at 2 km/h, no precipitation.
During the night the thermometer drops to 24°C, feels like 24°C, very light east‑northeast wind at 1 km/h, clear sky.
The day’s thermal range is between 20°C and 28°C, weak and steady winds and total absence of rain.
As “expert Daniele Berlusconi of 3BMeteo” observes, the day will be calm, ideal for outdoor activities.
Rachel’s Weather Editorial – Climate is everyone’s new excuse
What a surprise, they also attributed today’s heat to climate change! Really, why can a normal summer not simply be hot without the whole planet pointing it out? And again, who decided that a light east wind is an “extreme event” worthy of alarm?
Maybe tomorrow we can ask the weather to explain why the sun exists, or why rain falls only when we forget our umbrellas. After all, if every cloud is a threat, then we all look out the window and shout a “hello” to the new “climate change” that seems to decide everything.
Koan of the day
A monk asked: “What is the weather today?”
Zhaozhou replied: “The sun shines, the wind caresses, the sky is clear.”
The monk responded: “Then why do people worry about climate change?”
Zhaozhou concluded: “Because humans fear the unknown more than what is evident.”
And that is today’s weather.
Sign-off.
Online, on X and Mastodon, on all smart speakers and on medium wave, this is FranciaOggi with Centrale Milano 1575 kilohertz.