Europe's cost-of-living protests draw over 550,000 in France, Belgium, Italy, and Portugal

More than 550,000 people protested across Europe on Saturday over the soaring cost of living, with France seeing the largest turnout. Demonstrations in Belgium, Italy, and Portugal also drew crowds, highlighting widespread economic discontent. The protests were driven by country-specific grievances, including housing and wage concerns in Portugal, education costs in Belgium, and public spending in France. Italian demonstrations also opposed wars. French President Macron defended the right to protest but warned against violence, while some protests turned violent, leading to police using tear gas. Experts suggest the unrest could spread to other European nations, reflecting shared grievances over living standards and public services. The protests may pressure governments to address these issues, potentially influencing political debates across the continent.