Latest news in France? September 12th, 2026

Normandy Passenger Train Derailment A passenger train carrying around 180 people derailed near Cléon in Normandy (between Rouen and Caen). At least 44 people were reported injured, with an 18-year-old passenger critically hurt and airlifted to Rouen University Hospital. French rail operator SNCF suspended rail services along the route, and investigatorsincluding police examining possible sabotage or track obstructionare determining the cause. The Guardian+ 1Economic Growth Forecast Cut The French government officially lowered its economic growth projection for 2026 to 0.5% (down from previous 0.7% estimates). Economy Minister Roland Lescure cited persistent macroeconomic headwinds, acknowledging that the target to rein in the budget deficit below 5% of GDP for the year is no longer attainable. Qatar news agencyDiplomatic Agenda at the UN France continues its rotating presidency of the United Nations Security Council for the month of September, coordinating sessions ahead of the UN General Assembly high-level debates on crises in the Middle East and Eastern Europe. us.diplomatie.gouv.fr