Thousands protest across France as clashes erupt in Paris and Lyon
Around 33,000 people participated in demonstrations in more than 140 actions nationwide, with police reporting 272 arrests and incidents of violence in several cities.
Police deployed tear gas and water cannons in Paris as a large-scale march continued from Place de la République toward Place de Clichy. While the main procession remained largely peaceful, isolated groups built barricades and engaged in confrontations, prompting authorities to make additional arrests.
The interior ministry said "black bloc" elements were present in the protests and confirmed 272 arrests across the country. It reported damage to public buildings in Marseille, Lille, Grenoble and Lyon, where about 20,000 demonstrators gathered, and noted attempts to loot businesses.
In Lyon, the tourism office was set on fire, and in several cities, town halls were damaged after protesters forced entry. The ministry emphasized that law-enforcement officers were targeted and that security forces remained heavily deployed to protect public property.
Marine Le Pen, the National Rally presidential candidate, accused "rioters" of "poisoning" the protests, while Jean-Luc Mélenchon of La France Insoumise described the demonstrations as calm. A British teacher in France said students were frustrated with long school hours and poor conditions, and several students described themselves as "pacifists" seeking change.
Tourists in Paris reported mixed reactions; some expressed concern but said they still felt safe, while others adjusted travel plans after landmarks such as the Arc de Triomphe were closed.
Overall, the protests brought together students, trade unions, yellow-vest activists and other groups to demand action on education standards, the cost of living and public services.