French President Emmanuel Macron condemned the violence that swept across France on Saturday, October 17. The protests left streets damaged, shops looted and hundreds of police officers injured.
Macron addressed the nation on Sunday evening. He promised tough action against those responsible for the destruction. He also acknowledged the concerns of students and families struggling with rising living costs.
Hundreds of thousands of people joined demonstrations across France. The government estimated 550,000 participants, while organizers reported 800,000.
Students, trade unions and Yellow Vest supporters joined the protests. Many demanded better schools, stronger public services and relief from rising prices.
Most demonstrations remained peaceful. However, some groups attacked police, damaged businesses and set fires.
The violence affected Paris, Marseille, Lyon, Bordeaux and Limoges.
Macron Demands Accountability After Violent Clashes
Macron described the events as deeply troubling. He questioned how people could cause such destruction in their own country.
In Limoges, rioters set fire to the historic city hall. Protesters also entered Marseille City Hall and attacked an official residence in Bordeaux.
In Lyon, a fire destroyed a tourist information office. Meanwhile, looters targeted shops in Paris and damaged several streets.
Macron blamed extremist groups and criminals for the attacks. He said those who destroyed property must face justice.
The president also ordered a review of the police response. He wants officials to examine possible security failures and explain their findings.
French authorities reported nearly 2,400 arrests. Almost 1,000 police officers and gendarmes suffered injuries, according to figures reported on Sunday.
Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez defended the police response. He said officers faced several groups that moved quickly between different locations.
Opposition leaders criticized the government’s handling of the unrest.
Green Party leader Marine Tondelier called for Nuñez to resign. She argued that authorities had failed to prepare for the violence.
Macron Promises Talks With Students and Political Leaders
Macron also addressed the concerns behind the protests.
He acknowledged that many young people worry about their future. Students have raised concerns about school conditions and job opportunities.
The president said the government must listen to these concerns while protecting public safety.
Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu will lead discussions with political parties, unions and student groups. Local officials will also take part.
Macron promised financial support for businesses that suffered damage. He also said government efforts to improve energy supplies should help ease costs.
At the same time, he warned that authorities could ban certain gatherings to prevent further violence.
Political leaders remain divided over the protests.
Marine Le Pen said the violence had overshadowed legitimate concerns about living costs.
Jean-Luc Mélenchon defended the peaceful majority of demonstrators. He also criticized the media’s focus on clashes.
Macron urged political parties to condemn violence and support democratic debate.
France now faces growing pressure to investigate the unrest and address the concerns behind the demonstrations.
