Violent clashes between protesters and riot police have continued across France, with about 1,800 people reportedly arrested following a weekend of demonstrations over rising living costs, fuel prices and deteriorating public services....
Violent clashes between protesters and riot police have continued across France, with about 1,800 people reportedly arrested following a weekend of demonstrations over rising living costs, fuel prices and deteriorating public services.
Masked protesters were seen ransacking a Foot Locker store in Paris, while riot police charged at demonstrators with batons and detained those unable to escape.
France’s Interior Ministry said about 550,000 people took to the streets nationwide on Saturday, with demonstrations turning violent in several cities.
In Marseille, Lyon and other urban centres, groups of rioters smashed shop windows, looted businesses, attacked public buildings and set fires.
President Emmanuel Macron has called for “calm and order”, vowing to bring those responsible for the violence to justice.
He blamed what he described as “far-left extremist groups” and “criminals” for the destruction, while acknowledging the anger of peaceful demonstrators over soaring fuel prices and the rising cost of living.
Macron said local prefects would work with mayors to protect public buildings and businesses, including imposing restrictions on certain gatherings where necessary.
Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu would also oversee emergency assistance for businesses and communities affected by the unrest.
The violence has intensified pressure on Macron’s government, with the mayors of Paris, Lyon and Marseille demanding explanations over the policing of the demonstrations.
The unrest follows weeks of student protests over education funding and living conditions, as frustration over rising prices has brought trade unions, students and supporters of the Yellow Vest movement onto the streets.