French ex-PM on trial over smears - BBC

The former French Prime Minister, Dominique de Villepin, has gone on trial charged with plotting to discredit President Nicolas Sarkozy.

"I will come out of this a free man and exonerated," said Mr de Villepin, dressed in a dark suit and tie, looking tanned and relaxed. "I know that truth will prevail." French ex-PM on trial over smears

Murky tale behind French PM's trial
Profile: Dominique de Villepin