550,000 protest across France; 400 arrested as violence erupts

Around 550,000 people protested across France on Saturday, with approximately 400 arrests made, according to Interior Minister Laurent Nunez, who condemned the violence during the gatherings. Nunez reported 60 security force members injured and numerous attacks on public buildings, including city halls in Marseille, Lille, Calais and Angers, plus looting by opportunistic offenders in several cities. Demonstrators included farmers, climate activists, trade unions and students demanding action on fuel prices, living costs, education and public services. The protests disrupted Paris metro services on over 10 lines and limited visitor access to the Louvre and Orangerie museums. President Emmanuel Macron vowed on X that those who destroyed property or attacked institutions "will be prosecuted and punished," while expressing support for law enforcement against those seeking to "tear down our institutions."