In brief
President Macron demanded calm during a televised address as France reels from nationwide protests over high fuel prices, cost of living and public services. 550,000 demonstrators marched peacefully before clashes erupted in Paris, Marseille and other cities. Macron differentiated between legitimate grievances and looting, calling for justice against those who smashed windows. He pledged full transparency on police operations, while about 2,400 people were detained and 1,000 officers were injured.
Macron calls for calm in France amid escalating riots
French President Emmanuel Macron urged the nation to remain calm during a televised address at the Élysée Palace after Saturday’s protests turned into widespread looting and violence.
He said the country was “feeling anger and shame” over the unrest that followed protests against rising fuel prices, the high cost of living and the decline in public services.
Around 550,000 people marched across the country, mostly peacefully, before groups in Paris, Marseille and other cities began shaking windows, setting cars on fire and vandalising shops. Police arrested about 2,400 people and used tear gas and water cannon raids; about 1,000 officers were injured, seven seriously.
Macron insisted that “no justification exists for the unbridled violence” and promised that those involved would face justice. He also promised “full transparency” over police operations and called on local prefects and mayors to protect businesses and property.
