French President Emmanuel Macron has warned that people seeking to cause disorder during protests over the rising cost of living will not be allowed to do so, as authorities prepare for fresh demonstrations across the country....
French President Emmanuel Macron has warned that people seeking to cause disorder during protests over the rising cost of living will not be allowed to do so, as authorities prepare for fresh demonstrations across the country.
Macron gave the warning while speaking to journalists in Doha, Qatar, where he met with the country’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.
He said he would meet with French intelligence services ahead of protests planned for Saturday, amid renewed tensions following days of demonstrations and riots.
The French president maintained that there had been no “visible foreign interference in the events that took place”, but warned that foreign actors had manipulated information in the aftermath.
More than 500,000 people reportedly took part in demonstrations across France on Saturday, demanding better conditions in schools and protesting against the rising cost of living.
At least 2,500 people were arrested after violence broke out in some areas, with reports of looting and damage to businesses.
Macron vowed to take firm action to restore order, saying he would “adopt all the measures necessary” to ensure “calm, security and order”.
He also criticised what he described as “unacceptable and even stupid comments” by several people, including foreign leaders, about the unrest.
His remarks appeared to target United States President Donald Trump, who claimed the protests were linked to immigration, and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who alleged that France had been engulfed by an “invasion of extremist Islam”. Neither leader provided evidence to substantiate the claims cited in the report.
Meanwhile, France’s Yellow Vest movement has announced plans for a large demonstration in Paris this weekend, adding to concerns over further unrest.
Macron said a state of emergency was not currently necessary. However, Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has promised increased security at future demonstrations, including a “massive deployment” of police backed by the military.