By Marco Hugo Barsotti MHB 
Welcome to am1575news, the news bulletin of France24 and Radio Centrale Milano for Monday 28 September 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
The RN forms a parliamentary group in the Senate: what it means for the institutional game
Last September 27 the results of the senatorial elections allowed the Rassemblement National to reach the threshold of ten members required to form a parliamentary group in the Senate, thanks to the alliance with the UDR of Éric Ciotti. With eleven new senators – two in Var, two in Bouches‑du‑Rhône, one in Gard, one in Hérault – and the three representatives already present, the RN now has fourteen seats, far exceeding the required minimum.
RN president Jordan Bardella celebrated the achievement on his social channels, calling it a “first in the history of the Fifth Republic”. Northern senator Joshua Hochart commented enthusiastically: “Finally I will no longer feel alone”. Northern deputy Sébastien Chenu also emphasized the strategic value of this turn, stating that the “patriots” will now be able to make their voice heard in the hemicycle.
The formation of the group guarantees the RN new institutional privileges: extended speaking times, a weekly question to the government during the questions session, and a larger budget for legislative preparation. Moreover, RN senators will have the opportunity to access key committees and leadership roles in the senatorial bodies, although they still cannot aspire to a vice‑presidency.
The reactions of the other groups have been mixed. Senate LR president Gérard Larcher noted that the new group “will be entitled to a question every week… but not one now and then”. Communist senator Pierre Ouzoulias expressed reservations about the weight of this presence, indicating that “as long as they do not have a vice‑presidency, it will remain so”. Some centrist senators, however, fear that the RN’s presence could make debates more tense, without imagining a structural break of the traditional consensus of the Luxembourg Palace.
On the electoral front, the RN intends to use this new platform to move closer to the presidency of the Republic. Marine Le Pen has already called the senators “an essential relay in the presidential campaign”, while Chenu declared that “opening the doors of the Senate is a new stage of the adventure launched years ago by Le Pen”. Ecologist senator Yannick Jadot, however, warned that the RN’s greater influence could push the LR groups further to the right, raising concerns among the left and centrists.
In summary, the establishment of the RN parliamentary group in the Senate represents a historic first for the party, allows it to participate more actively in the legislative process and to expand its institutional visibility, but also opens up new debates about the nature and tone of parliamentary work.
franceinfo, 28 September 2026 Fact Check by Gemma4.
Chart of the evolution of fuel prices in France
As they say, a chart is worth a thousand words. Here it is (compiled by France Info from data prix-carburant.gov.fr):
Macron calls an emergency meeting in the secret wing of the Élysée: three political leaders leave before the conclusion
President Emmanuel Macron convened, on the morning of Friday 18 September 2026, an emergency meeting with the leaders of the main parties represented in Parliament. The meeting, held in an underground room of the Élysée known as “Vega”, was intended to address the repercussions of the international crisis – from the war in Ukraine to tensions in the Middle East – on security levels and the daily lives of French citizens. The event was also attended by the heads of the DGSI, DGSE, DRM, DGEC and SGDSN, who provided an update on the geopolitical situation.
According to information released by the daily Le Parisien on the same day, three political figures left the venue before the session ended. François Bayrou, leader of MoDem, left to attend a political engagement in L’Isle‑sur‑la‑Sorgue, in the Provence region. Fabien Roussel, national secretary of the Communist Party, had to return to his hometown of Saint‑Amand‑les‑Eaux, where he serves as mayor. Finally, Bruno Retailleau, Republican candidate for the upcoming presidential elections, left the meeting to honor scheduled commitments in Vendée.
A participant in the meeting, who remained anonymous, commented: “Some want to lead the country, but consider they can walk away before the end. It’s shocking!”. The Élysée communiqué, published on 18 September, emphasized the need for a “situation report” shared among all political actors to ensure a coordinated response to the international crisis.
Gala, 27/09/2026
Fact Check by Gemma4.
Rachel’s Editorial — Macron, the wizard of the ultra‑secret and of the vanished public
I will now read you my editorial of the day.
Macron decided to convene an “emergency council” in an underground room of the Élysée called, apparently, Vega, because the ground‑floor parking was taken up by too many dramas. Moreover, when power is so light that it cannot even hold three leaders until the end of the meeting, why not turn the room into a panic chamber? Better a fantasy bunker than a concrete response to international crises.
Thus three politicians – Bayrou, Roussel and Retailleau – abandon the “crisis” to return to their private commitments: a chat in L’Isle‑sur‑la‑Sorgue, a visit to Saint‑Amand‑les‑Eaux and some Vendée engagements. Who knows, perhaps the real danger was that the DGSI briefing stopped including the “Mission: Impossible” soundtrack. It’s truly sidérant, or simply an elegant way to show that the president has more secrets than a spy agency.
Meanwhile BFMTV turns the classic “greve greve greve” into an avant‑garde theatre chorus, suggesting that officials’ anger is so deep it could split national borders. Macron, as usual, defends himself with the phrase “it’s not my fault”, leaving room for more fanciful hypotheses: perhaps it’s a protest against Trump, or perhaps the real cause is yet another algorithm telling him to click “postpone”. A satire so subtle that even a journalist’s DSLR should have tried to focus on it.
The conclusion is inevitable: Gala’s journalism delights in turning a simple state meeting into a runaway show, while behind the scenes politicians behave more like actors in a Netflix series than public officials. If you can’t even keep three guests tightly together in a secret room, perhaps it is time to ask whether the real secret is the inability to truly govern.
Koan of the day
Monk: Master, why did the three politicians leave the secret room before the emergency meeting ended?
Master: Because the door of truth is lighter than the shadow of fear, and those who carry their own agenda have no time for the waiting of those who listen without listening.
Monk: So then, who is really the part that melts in this “greve greve greve” everyone talks about?
Master: The real strike is that of silence that occurs between the words of the powerful; it is an echo that reverberates in the secret room, reminding us that the loudest noise is the absence.
But let’s return to the news.
Crisis of presidentialism in France
The exercise of power, as provided by the 1958 Constitution, has progressively weakened over the past twenty years, concentrating increasingly on the figure of the president until generating a profound fatigue, writes Solenn de Royer in her column for Le Monde.
Where does this vague unease about the upcoming presidential elections come from? Some hypothesize fear of a possible far‑right takeover, others point to the unprecedented number of candidates, who are spread across all camps, or the transformation of the electoral race into a popularity contest based on personalities rather than programmes or ideologies. Still others highlight the apparent weakness of several candidates, both in terms of ideas and presence, in a context where the stakes – debt, sovereignty, education and other sectors – and the risks – geopolitical, climate, AI‑related – have never been so extreme. However, these explanations do not fully account for the widespread sentiment.
According to the Constitution of the Fifth Republic, presidential elections should constitute a promise of resolution: the people decide, a majority forms, and the country resumes its path. This time, however, the most important vote in French political life may resolve nothing. It risks not overcoming the crisis triggered by President Emmanuel Macron with the dissolution of the National Assembly in June 2024, a crisis marked by decomposition, fragmentation, polarization and the disappearance of a stable majority, resulting in institutional paralysis. Moreover, the country’s economic difficulties, with an astronomical debt of €3.5 trillion, will leave Macron’s successor with very limited operational leeway.
The French sense, vaguely, that the cycle begun in 1962 is reaching its end: institutions appear exhausted, the system is worn out and the presidency seems severely damaged, requiring a deep reinvention.
Le Monde, 28 September 2026
Fact Check by Gemma4.
“It’s no longer possible, enough”: public employees will mobilize massively for wages in the Tuesday 29 September strike
The discontent of state employees will be felt across the national territory with more than 160 scheduled demonstrations. Railways and urban transport could experience disruptions following strike calls aimed at hitting RATP and SNCF.
The public administration inter‑trade union has declared a “black” day for Tuesday 29 September, with participation of teachers, health workers, tax agency officers, municipal and regional employees, as well as professional firefighters.
At the core of the demands is a salary revaluation, in a context of returning inflation and a 2027 budget that foresees a freeze of the civil service index point, described as a “scandal” by the CGT. The €54 billion savings proposal is contested, with the CGT denouncing the measure’s injustice. “If there is no wage increase for public employees, I tell the government: enough! We cannot continue after 2024‑2026 with nothing, adding 2027 is not possible,” said Luc Farré, general secretary of Unsa‑Public Function.
In the transport sector, the CGT urges RATP operators to go on an “unlimited” strike starting Monday 28 September, also demanding a €600 fuel bonus for all agents, a revaluation of the complementary relocation allowance (for off‑hour shifts) and the immediate reopening of mandatory annual negotiations.
On the SNCF front, the Sud Rail union has issued an appeal for a strike that starts on 28 September at 18:00 and will continue until 28 November at 23:00. The demands include reopening the annual negotiations (NAO) without waiting for 2027 and a fairer distribution of the €1.2 billion semi‑annual profits recorded by the company.
BFMTV, 27 September 2026
Fact Check by Gemma4.
Welcome to the international bulletin from FranceToday and Radio Centrale Milano for Monday 28 September 2026 on FranceToday.com in podcasting and on Medium Wave at 1575 kHz.
From Paris, this is Rachel Costa.
Serbia: Aleksandar Vučić’s resignation from the presidency to run for prime minister
Serbian president Aleksandar Vučić submitted his resignation, announcing his intention to take part in the upcoming parliamentary elections as a prime‑ministerial candidate. The decision came amid growing student tension and protests against the country’s economic management. Vučić hopes to lead a new executive capable of tackling fiscal challenges and strengthening ties with the European Union.
The move was met with surprise both in Belgrade and in Brussels, where international observers wonder whether Vučić’s leadership can guarantee political stability and structural reforms. Analysts underline that his diplomatic experience could give new impetus to Italy’s accession process to the European single market, but the possible effects on the climate of foreign investment remain uncertain.
SpaceX prepares to launch the Starship into orbit for the first time
The US aerospace giant SpaceX has announced the upcoming test flight of its gigantic Starship vessel, destined to revolutionize space travel. The goal is to reach Earth orbit, a fundamental step toward future missions to the Moon and Mars. The launch, scheduled for next week, will be broadcast live and represents the culmination of years of technological development.
According to SpaceX engineers, the Starship must demonstrate the ability to withstand thermal stresses and the resurrection of its massive Raptor engines. If successful, the mission will open the way to a new era of commercial and scientific space travel, with potential spill‑over effects on the satellite industry and space tourism opportunities.
Donald Trump wants to eliminate the electric vehicle requirement in the United States
US President Donald Trump announced his intention to repeal the regulations that require new vehicles to reduce fuel consumption, a measure introduced by the Biden administration to accelerate the spread of electric cars. Trump criticizes the regulation, calling it “ridiculous” and harmful to the American automotive industry, arguing that the market should regulate the energy transition on its own.
The proposal has already sparked mixed reactions: traditional car manufacturers welcome the potential flexibility, while electric‑vehicle manufacturers fear a slowdown in sales and a loss of competitive advantages. The issue fits into a broader debate on the future of environmental policies in the United States.
Russian oil hits a historic low of the past 17 years
The most recent data show that Russian oil prices have fallen to the lowest level recorded since 2009, with the barrel price hovering around $40. The drop is mainly attributed to international sanctions and reduced global demand, while Russia struggles to find outlet markets for its production. President Vladimir Putin has proposed increasing exports from the Arctic, but the strategy depends on two specialized vessels vulnerable to weather conditions.
International analysts warn that the prolonged devaluation of Russian oil could lead to a restructuring of energy relations between Moscow and European countries, prompting the latter to diversify sources. Meanwhile, renewable energy producers see an opportunity to accelerate investments, while emerging markets seek to reduce dependence on Russian fuel.
China records the weakest growth in industrial profits of the year
According to statistics released this week, the growth of Chinese industrial firms’ profits fell to 4.2 % in the latest month, the lowest value of the entire year. The slowdown reflects a combination of weak domestic demand, supply‑chain disruptions and a more restrictive regulatory environment. Authorities have responded with targeted stimulus measures, but the recovery remains uncertain.
The result has raised concern among investors, who fear a chain reaction on commodity sectors and global trade. The slowdown of Chinese industrial production could also affect commodity price dynamics on the world market, accentuating tensions between major exporters and importers of manufactured goods.
China considers the purchase of Nvidia RTX Pro 5500 chips by Alibaba and ByteDance
Sources close to the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology have reported that the Chinese government is considering allowing major domestic companies, including Alibaba and ByteDance, to purchase the new Nvidia RTX Pro 5500 chips intended for advanced professional work. The move responds to growing pressure on artificial‑intelligence suppliers to ensure sufficient computing capacity for modern language models.
Chinese authorities have asked companies to submit a detailed plan on the use of these components, in a context of rising tension with Washington over technology restrictions. If approved, the decision would represent a major breakthrough for the AI sector in China, boosting model‑training capabilities and reducing reliance on foreign suppliers.
The Brent oil market rises 2.7 % after Trump’s rejection of Iran’s proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz
Brent oil price rose 2.7 % following US President Donald Trump’s announcement that he had rejected Iran’s proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, strategically crucial for the transit of energy exports. Iran had offered to restart negotiations within seven days, provided the United States eased pressure, but Trump deemed the proposal inadequate.
Market operators reacted with a price increase, concerned about the repercussions of a possible blockage of the maritime corridor, which accounts for over 20 % of global oil traffic. Experts warn that an escalation of tensions could trigger further volatility in energy markets, with cascading effects on worldwide energy prices.
France anticipates a “jackpot” of €200 million from gas tax revenues
The French government has published an estimate indicating that, thanks to the current rise in gas prices, the State could collect an additional €200 million in tax revenues by year‑end. Unlike fuel taxation, which helped reduce revenues, gas pressure is generating a surplus for the budget. The Ministry of Economy has launched a review of rates to maximize resources without further burdening consumers.
The initiative is part of a broader strategy to tackle energy inflation and support public finances in an economic difficulty context. Observers have judged the measure a pragmatic response, although some consumer groups fear a further rise in heating costs in the coming cold seasons.
Weather Paris, Monaco Monte Carlo and Milan for Monday 28 September 2026
Paris – Cool day with isolated showers
The morning in Paris presents a temperature of 19 degrees, variable sky and wind from the west at 20 km/h, accompanied by a 100 % rain risk. The afternoon heats the thermometers up to 25 degrees, clouds become denser but the sun manages to break through, the wind remains calm at 20 km/h and the probability of rain drops to 40 %. Sunset brings a temperature of 23 degrees, the sky is very cloudy with brief clearings, wind moderate around 10‑20 km/h and a slight rain risk at 20 %. Night closes around 19 degrees, with intermittent clear sky, light wind at 20 km/h and no precipitation risk. The air is hostile for allergies with a bad pollution index, but the temperature is 5 °C above normal. According to the expert Rég
Monaco – Shining sun and sea breezes
In the morning in Monaco the thermometer reads 21 degrees, the sky is clear, the wind is light at 10 km/h and no rain is expected. The afternoon brings heat up to 26 degrees, the sun shines with a few light clouds, the wind rises to 15 km/h but remains gentle and there is no precipitation. In the evening the temperature drops to 22 degrees, the sky remains mostly clear with winds of 15 km/h, and still no rain. At night the temperature is 20 degrees, the sky is almost cloud‑free, light winds around 10‑15 km/h and total absence of rain. The humidity is moderate and the UV index is medium, creating ideal conditions for a walk along the coast.
Milan – Stable sun and rising temperatures
The day in Milan starts with a fresh morning of 17 degrees, almost no wind from ENE at 1 km/h and clear sky. During the afternoon the temperature rises to 26 degrees, the southeast wind is light, around 1‑5 km/h, and the sky remains clear with no rain. Sunset sees temperatures around 24 degrees, moderate SE winds at 5‑6 km/h, with persistent clear sky. Night closes with 22 degrees, weak NE wind at 5 km/h, and sky still cloud‑free. The air is clean with a normal pollution index, while humidity decreases towards evening. According to expert Daniele Berlusconi of 3BMeteo, atmospheric stability will last throughout the week.
Rachel’s Dressing Advisory — Elegance under the sky
With 25 °C this afternoon in Paris, an impeccable Chanel tweed suit is recommended, with refined tailoring and velvet finishes, perfect for facing the clouds aristocratically; perhaps accompanied by a pair of Dior sunglasses delicately housed in a black leather case. One simply cannot survive a Parisian afternoon like that in anything less than silk. To complete the ensemble, a Gucci leather clutch adds an unparalleled touch of class.
With 26 °C this afternoon in Monaco, the ideal is a Valentino linen dress, fluid cut that embraces the sea breeze, and Ferragamo leather sandals, elegant yet practical for walking along the promenade; the look is enriched with a Balenciaga leather belt to define the silhouette. The Mediterranean breeze calls for a garment of both form and function. A pair of Dior sunglasses completes the outfit with luminous elegance.
With 26 °C on a Milanese evening, a refined Prada cashmere coat is recommended, with a straight cut and perfect length, capable of soothing the cool air, accompanied by a Cartier watch with a rose‑gold dial for a discreet touch of luxury. One must choose a suit that reflects both heritage and modernity. For a more casual alternative, a Balenciaga cooked‑velvet bomber with Nike sneakers is perfect for those who want a streetwise look without giving up prestige. And to complete the ensemble, a Missoni scarf in neutral tones adds warmth and style.
Koan of the day
One monk asked: “What is the true face of time today?”
Zhaozhou replied: “Time is a wheel that turns without stopping, neither question nor answer.”
The monk responded: “Then how can I understand it?”
Zhaozhou concluded: “Observe the sky and the wind, silence is the clearest answer.”
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.