France Arrests Over 1,200 in Violent Cost-of-Living Protests
More than 1,200 people were arrested and 150 police officers injured in France's most violent protests in decades, with demonstrators setting fire to town halls nationwide. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu called it a miracle the toll wasn't higher. Up to 800,000 people participated in Saturday's demonstrations against high living costs. While many marched peacefully, others attacked public buildings, shops, and police vehicles, including setting fire to town halls in Limoges and Marseille, and a tourist office in Lyon. Looting of grocery stores, pharmacies, and electronics shops was also reported. Lecornu harshly criticized violent protesters, vowing on X that the government would not be intimidated. Police unions, facing criticism over injured demonstrators, said officers are at a breaking point, while protesters cite fuel prices and school conditions as grievances.