Little cordiality shown in bruising 3-hour exchange, with incumbent repeatedly seeking to land punches over far-right challenger's record on Russia, while she focused on gov't ills

CRIF and Consistoire have become increasingly partisan over past decade, leading to criticism of their positions in some circles

Ukrainian leader believes French counterpart has refrained from using the term because he thinks it would hurt chances for diplomatic engagement with Russia

Far-right presidential candidate says animals should be stunned to reduce suffering, which is incompatible with kosher and halal rules

Leaders should be careful with language, French leader says, as he ramps up reelection campaign, echoing comments he made after US president called Putin a 'butcher'

Incumbent wins initial round with 27.85% to far-right candidate's 23.15%

Incumbent leads far-right candidate by several percentage points in first round; is set to focus more on campaigning, in bid to find election momentum that has so far eluded him

Analysts believe French president will come out ahead of far-right candidate by a handful of percentage points in round one, with the two going to a second round vote on April 24

Campaigning on cost of living and seemingly balanced out by the more extreme Zemmour, far-right leader is posing a threat to incumbent

French leader says there are 'very clear indications' Russian army was responsible for killings in Bucha; adds that fresh measures could target Russia's oil and coal industries