Violent protests across France see over half a million participants
More than 500,000 people demonstrated against rising living costs and declining public services in France, with some incidents turning violent and resulting in injuries and property damage.
Over the weekend, protests erupted in multiple French cities as citizens rallied against rising living costs and perceived cuts to public services. While many demonstrators marched peacefully, incidents of arson and looting were reported, including a fire that severely damaged the 19th-century city hall in Limoges and another blaze at Lyon's tourist office. Police deployed tear gas to disperse crowds, and several confrontations led to injuries, including a protester who suffered a heart attack and another who lost a hand.
French President Emmanuel Macron addressed the nation, saying, "Those who looted will have to pay back for the damage, and those who sought to bring down the Republic will be held accountable." He attributed the escalation to "unrestrained violence" by "insurrectionist elements from radical far-left groups, joined by numerous criminals."
The demonstrations, which began last month with high-school students in Paris protesting poor school conditions, have expanded into a nationwide movement.