France on Edge, Meta’s Tax Strategy, and Ancient Artifacts Emerging from Melting Glaciers

France is bracing for massive demonstrations today as a student-led protest movement, simmering for weeks, has escalated into a national crisis. Meanwhile, a Times investigation reveals that Meta has used an aggressive interpretation of a federal tax credit to save billions on its AI data centers, and in the Swiss Alps, melting glaciers are yielding ancient artifacts that are reshaping historians’ understanding of mountain life.

France’s Escalating Protests and Budget Crisis

What began as student protests over overcrowded and underfunded schools has grown into a broader confrontation with the French government. While many demonstrations have been peaceful, some have turned violent—students have barricaded school doors, set buildings on fire, and clashed with police. Hundreds have been injured, and roughly 6,000 people have been arrested.

Over the weekend, the Prime Minister pledged to address some complaints, including filling vacant teaching positions. But that did not satisfy protesters. Today, teachers and other public workers are joining students to rally against proposed salary freezes and what they see as a government failing to invest in France’s future.