French President Emmanuel Macron has condemned the "unbridled violence" and "shocking scenes" of looting and vandalism during nationwide protests over the cost of living. The unrest, which has led to more than 2,400 arrests, has sparked strong reactions from the government, with Macron vowing to hold those responsible accountable.
Macron addressed the nation in a televised speech, expressing anger and shame over the destruction of public property. He questioned how individuals could vandalize their own country, describing the scenes as "shocking" and "unacceptable." The protests, which have spread across multiple cities, have been fueled by rising living costs, poor school conditions, and widespread frustration with government policies.
This is the third major wave of protests in France this year, following similar demonstrations in 2023 and 2024. The current unrest has seen clashes between protesters and police, with some areas reporting damaged infrastructure and businesses. The government has deployed additional security forces to restore order, while critics argue that the protests reflect deeper economic and social grievances.
The protests have also drawn international attention, with some foreign officials expressing concern over the situation. Despite the violence, Macron has refused to call for the resignation of his interior minister, emphasizing the need for stability and continued dialogue. The government remains under pressure to address the root causes of the unrest, including inflation and public services.
