Violent protests over the cost of living left French cities damaged with many arrests reported. President Macron vowed to punish those responsible for the destruction.
France faced a difficult Sunday morning. Streets across the country showed signs of severe damage. Burned cars and broken shop windows filled many major cities.
These protests began on Saturday to address the high cost of living. People marched to highlight falling living standards. However, the situation quickly turned violent.
Masked individuals started fires and looted businesses. They attacked public buildings in Paris, Marseille, and other cities. These groups also caused chaos in Nice, Bordeaux, Lille, and Strasbourg.
Next, Paris officials described the destruction as widespread. Deputy Mayor Emmanuel Gregoire noted that entire streets suffered heavy damage. Police used water cannons and tear gas to control the crowds.
Meanwhile, protesters threw objects and set off fireworks at officers. Authorities eventually arrested about 1,200 people. Reports confirm that 150 police officers sustained injuries during the clashes.
Also, the violence damaged several government sites. Protesters targeted town halls in Limoges and Marseille. They also vandalized a police compound and a local tourist office.
In Saint-Etienne, a teenager suffered a serious injury. A crowd-control grenade caused the 17-year-old to lose his right hand. Officials called the overall situation dangerous.
After that, political leaders responded to the unrest. Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu expressed relief that the death toll remained zero. He called the outcome a miracle.
Finally, President Emmanuel Macron addressed the nation. He promised that police will punish those who looted shops. He vowed to prosecute everyone who attacked public property.
These riots follow recent student protests regarding education funding. The country also faces a presidential election in six months. Different political parties now blame each other for the chaos.