Macron condemns 'unbridled violence' as France sees major unrest
French president calls for order after widespread destruction during protests over cost of living and public services.
At a glance
- Approximately 2,400 people arrested across France during unrest
- Public buildings burned and hundreds of shops destroyed and looted
- Around 550,000 people participated in largely peaceful protests over cost of living and public services
- Macron called for distinction between peaceful demonstrators and those engaged in violence and looting
French President Emmanuel Macron has condemned what he described as "unbridled violence" following one of the most violent days of unrest in recent years across the country. Public buildings were burned, hundreds of shops destroyed and looted, and approximately 2,400 people were arrested, according to France's interior ministry.
Macron distinguished between peaceful demonstrators protesting rising fuel prices, living costs and deteriorating public services, and those engaged in destruction and looting. He said "nothing justifies" violence and indicated that local officials would be permitted to ban certain street gatherings if necessary. Some 550,000 people participated in largely peaceful protests.
Why it matters
The scale of violence and destruction during the protests has prompted calls for the resignation of France's Interior Minister, suggesting the government was unprepared for the extent of the unrest.
Original reporting
- Saudi Gazette — LatestMacron calls for order after ‘unbridled violence’ across France
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