President Emmanuel Macron calls for order after peaceful protests in France turned into widespread riots and looting.
French President Emmanuel Macron held an emergency meeting at the Élysée Palace on Sunday. He addressed the nation regarding recent civil unrest. The leader asked for immediate calm and order throughout the country.
Also, the president noted that the nation feels both anger and shame. This follows a weekend of intense protests that spiraled into widespread rioting. Many people looted businesses in several major French cities.
Meanwhile, roughly 550,000 citizens marched to express frustration over high fuel costs. They also protested the rising cost of living and poor public services. Most participants gathered for peaceful demonstrations.
However, Macron drew a clear line between these groups and the rioters. He condemned those who engaged in destruction and theft. Police have already arrested approximately 2,400 individuals involved in the chaos.
Next, the president stated that no excuse justifies such extreme violence. He promised that the law would hold all rioters accountable for their actions. Masked groups caused significant damage in Paris, Marseille, and Lille.
As a result, these groups set fire to many cars and buildings. Local mayors and government officials will now work together to protect property. They aim to safeguard shops and public infrastructure from future attacks.
Furthermore, Macron addressed concerns regarding the conduct of law enforcement. He pledged full transparency during the investigation into police tactics. Officers used tear gas, water cannons, and batons against the crowds during the weekend.
Finally, the Interior Ministry reported a high number of injuries among security forces. About 1,000 police officers suffered harm during the clashes. Seven of those officers remain in serious condition after the violent events.