EU riots spread: Macron blames far-left as protests hit France, Italy, Belgium

Massive riots, arson attacks on government buildings, and clashes with police have erupted across the European Union, prompting French President Emmanuel Macron to address the nation urgently. Macron condemned the uncontrolled violence, blaming radical far-left groups and criminal elements. In France, protests lasting a month have escalated, with over 600 law enforcement officers injured and more than 2,000 people detained. Rioters looted boutiques, burned cars, and set fire to a historic 150-year-old town hall in Limoges, while demonstrations also turned violent in Italy, Belgium, and Albania. The unrest is driven by rising living costs, fuel prices, and housing crises, with protests in Portugal and Albania adding to the continental turmoil. Macron has promised investigations into intelligence failures, emergency payments for affected businesses, and dialogue with youth.