As concerns grow over Russia's ability to meet its debt obligations, IMF chief Kristalina Georgieva says a default is no longer seen as "improbable". Also, lockdowns in China send shares in Hong Kong plummeting, and the French economy adjusts to higher fuel prices.

Putin's war on Ukraine is having a devastating economic impact. Countries across Europe face spiralling prices and shrinking markets. Guests: Katja Gloger (Russia expert), Vendeline von Wedekind (The Economist), Vladimir Esipov (DW)

"It cannot be that an autocrat attacks a sovereign country which has the right to the integrity of its territory." That's the firm response directed at Russia from the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen. Speaking exclusively to FRANCE 24 about the war in Ukraine, the EU leader added that "democracy is standing up against autocracy and therefore we stand as one".

As people all around Europe feel the cost of living rise and see their bank balance ever more squeezed amid energy price rises, we're looking into proposals for ensuring meaningful minimum wages are paid to everyone around the European Union.

The war in Ukraine is shaking up the global agricultural sector. With sanctions blocking supplies from Russia, soaring prices caused by high demand for fertilizers from alternative producers are threatening crops.

Some EU governments are pushing for an embargo on Russian oil and gas to punish Moscow for its war against Ukraine and force a Russian military withdrawal.

Russia's invasion of Ukraine has expedited the "Strategic Compass" security strategy, which allows the European Union to form a rapid reaction force. Germany has offered to provide the "military core."

At a summit on Thursday, the EU is to release its concept to bolster security and defense policy. It will include plans for a defense force but not one that competes with NATO, says DW's Bernd Riegert in Brussels.

The measures come after North Korea said it had tested its biggest intercontinental ballistic missile yet. The UN Security Council is to hold an emergency meeting over Pyongyang's launch later on Friday.

The deal may force US tech giants like Google, Amazon, Apple and Meta to change their business practices and is designed to give rivals a better chance of survival.

Bandit attacks using motorbikes have increased in northwestern Nigeria leading to the loss of lives and properties. The region has a long history of bandits raiding villages, conducting kidnappings and stealing cattle.

The United States and the European Union have announced a new partnership to wean Europe off of Russian gas. The deal comes after Western leaders held three summits over Russia's invasion of Ukraine.