From Ukraine’s evolving battlefield, where drone warfare is redefining frontlines and so-called “killing zones,” to reports of “Martian drones” and their impact on both Russian and Ukrainian forces, we also look at the expanding use of unmanned systems in rescue operations, including the evacuation of a 77-year-old woman in Odesa region. France 24’s Gavin Lee is joined by Olena Krizhanivska, a Ukrainian defence analyst specialising in drones and unmanned systems, and founder of Ukraine’s Arms Monitor.

As Mali’s military struggles to maintain control amid a growing jihadist insurgency, a number of its own soldiers have been arrested, accused of collaborating with Al-Qaeda-linked militants in coordinating widespread attacks. Islamist group JNIM, alongside separatist rebels, has reportedly seized two northern cities, killed the defence minister, and is now attempting to impose a blockade on the capital, Bamako. We take a closer look at what’s happening on the ground, the escalating security crisis, and the role of Russian mercenaries in supporting the government. France 24’s Gavin Lee is joined by Beverley Ochieng, a specialist in West Africa and political risk analyst at Control Risks, to discuss.

A senior Iranian officer on Saturday said that fresh fighting with the United States is “likely”, underscoring rising tensions after President Donald Trump dismissed Tehran’s latest negotiating proposal and issued fresh threats to attack the country.  

Reports from Iran suggest that a citizen named Hesam Alaeeddin, son of the founder of Alaeddin Mall in Tehran, was killed while being taken into custody by security forces.

As Iran’s new wave of executions continues, the judiciary chief, defying international calls to halt them, vows no leniency and dismisses 'arrogant' foreign critics.

Zelenskyy said they had invited each other to meet. Slovakia's prime minister has backed Viktor Orbán's isolated line on Ukraine, though less fervently than the outgoing Hungarian leader.

Day 2 of the Dushanbe Grand Slam 2026 brought more joy for the home crowd, with Muhiddin Asadulloev and Somon Makhmadbekov both taking gold. Gankhaich Bold and Aleksandra Kowalewska also topped the podium in a packed and vibrant arena.

The humpback whale that was rescued from a shallow Baltic Sea bay off the island of Poel has been released, the private rescue initiative has announced. However, it is unclear what condition the animal is in.

While authorities fear shell explosions at the site, the organisers are denouncing the 'criminalisation' of party venues. Illegal rave parties could soon be punished more severely in France, with penalties of up to six months in prison.

Catch up with the most important stories from around Europe and beyond this May 2nd, 2026 - latest news, breaking news, World, Business, Entertainment, Politics, Culture, Travel.

Turkey’s efforts to expand its influence in West Africa could be threatened by attacks on Mali’s military regime, as Ankara pledges support while its growing security cooperation with Bamako faces new pressure.

Iran’s imprisoned Nobel peace prize winner Narges Mohammadi has been transferred to hospital to receive urgent care after experiencing a “catastrophic deterioration” of her health, a foundation run by her family said on Saturday. Mohammadi was moved on Friday after suffering a heart attack and experiencing two episodes of “complete” unconsciousness, it said.