An update from the CNN newsdesk in London on the stories we're following on Monday:

Europe terror threat - In a radio interview Sunday, French Interior Minister Brice Hortefeux said that Saudi Arabian intelligence services are warning of a new terrorist threat from al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula targeting Europe, especially France.

Congo rape - Nima Elbagir visits the village of Kahungu, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where only a few days ago, armed militants launched an attack of rape and sexual abuse.

France strikes - Schools, transport and oil refineries are continuing to be deeply affected by strikes and protests. On Monday, truckers joined the industrial action by commencing “Operation L’escargot.”

Sarkozy, Medvedev, Merkel Meeting -French President Nicholas Sarkozy, Russian President Dimitri Medvedev and German Chancellor Angela Merkel meet in Deauville, Normandy, Monday and Tuesday.

Chile president in London - Eager to capitalise on the world’s focus on Chile miners, the Chilean president, Sebastian Pineira, visits London where he will meet with PM David Cameron and the Queen.

Merkel multiculturalism - Multiculturalism in Germany has "absolutely failed," German Chancellor Angela Merkel told her party's youth wing at a conference Saturday.

UK defense spending review - This week, the UK will learn what budget cuts are necessary to contain the nation's spending.   A key focus is the military and security - how much can be cut, without jeopardizing the nation's safety? Monday's announcement is from the foreign secretary, and defense secretary. 

Belgium rail strike - Thousands of Eurostar passengers have had to change their travel plans because of industrial action due to hit Belgium's rail network.

Holbrooke in Italy - The Italian foreign ministry hosts conference today on Afghanistan with Special Envoy to Afghanistan, Richard Holbrooke.