EU and Kiev Urge Trump Amidst Persisting Heat Wave; Listéria Bacteria Surfaces
Article Title: A Week in Review: August 11-18, 2025
In the past week, several significant events have unfolded across the globe. Here's a roundup of some of the key happenings.
Recall of Dairy Products Due to Listeria Contamination
Since August 11, products from a dairy in Creuse have been recalled due to suspected contamination with the Listeria bacterium. The affected cheeses, as listed in the Libération article, are now being withdrawn from supermarkets.
Urbanization and Ecosystem Degradation: Human Connection to Nature Plummets
Urbanization, ecosystem degradation, and a lack of intergenerational transmission have contributed to a 60% drop in human connection to nature in two centuries. This startling statistic highlights the importance of preserving and reconnecting with our natural environment.
New Draft Treaty on Plastic Pollution Met with Criticism
A new draft treaty on plastic pollution was presented on August 13, but was immediately rejected by several countries and strongly criticized by NGOs. The treaty, written by the diplomat who chairs the negotiations, lacks any reference to constraints on virgin plastic production.
Ariane 6 Successfully Launched
A milestone was achieved in the space industry on August 12, with the successful launch of Ariane 6 from Kourou. This launch is hoped to signal Europe's return to the space race, with France as its driving force.
European and Ukrainian Leaders Push for Ceasefire in Russia-Ukraine War
At the August 18, 2025 White House summit, European and Ukrainian leaders largely supported Ukraine's territorial integrity and favored a ceasefire in the Russia-Ukraine war. President Trump, however, questioned the necessity of an immediate ceasefire, showing a shift from his earlier position. The leaders framed the summit as "damage control" to maintain Ukrainian territorial integrity, aiming to contain Russian aggression through diplomatic means supported by Western countries.
Italian Artist Featured in New Artwork
The 16th-century Italian painter, Arcimboldo, is the protagonist of a new artwork called "Heads of art: Vertumne, the final fight". The artwork features Arcimboldo trying to save the last cherry tree in a town in Montreuil.
Politicized Guided Tours in Paris
Guided tours in Paris are becoming politicized, with a focus on the visibility of black, queer, and feminist people. This shift in focus aims to provide a more inclusive and diverse perspective on the city's history.
Leaders of European Union and Ukraine Pressure Trump Ahead of Putin Summit
On August 13, the leaders of the European Union and Ukraine held a videoconference to pressure Donald Trump ahead of his summit with Vladimir Putin on August 15. The leaders united to ensure that Kyiv is involved in the negotiations.
New Decree Strengthens Obligations of Companies Regarding Heat Exposure During Construction
Since July 1, a new decree has strengthened the obligations of companies regarding exposure to intense heat during construction. This move aims to protect construction workers from the harmful effects of heat stress.
Sources:
[1] The Guardian, "European and Ukrainian leaders call for ceasefire in Russia-Ukraine war", August 18, 2025. [2] The New York Times, "Experts Urge Firmer Approach Against Russia in Ukraine Conflict", August 19, 2025. [3] BBC News, "Summit: European and Ukrainian leaders call for trilateral meeting with Putin", August 18, 2025.
