France bans protests in Paris, Lyon, Lille, Grenoble after unrest

French authorities have banned demonstrations in parts of Paris, Lyon, Lille and Grenoble, as President Emmanuel Macron blamed far-left groups for stoking violence during weekend protests that led to widespread rioting and looting. The Paris Police Prefecture outlawed Thursday's protests in areas near the Elysee Palace, parliament, main train stations and downtown zones hit by looting, citing organisers' "inability to prevent violence and vandalism." Over 2,500 people were arrested after Saturday's protests, which drew more than half a million people over school conditions and living costs. Macron accused "ultra-left" groups of "seditious acts" aimed at "bringing down the Republic," and announced bans on "illegitimate" protests while requiring approved demonstrations to use alternative routes. A large "yellow vest" protest is expected Saturday, with a "massive" security operation planned, as union representatives reported no concrete proposals from government meetings.