France braces for 700,000 protesters as unions and students unite

France is bracing for new mass protests on Thursday, with up to 700,000 demonstrators expected nationwide against President Emmanuel Macron, following October's arson and widespread looting. Striking workers and dissatisfied students are joining forces, with clashes already reported in Lyon. Authorities anticipate 500,000 to 700,000 protesters across the country, including at least 80,000 in Paris. The movement, which began as a protest against the education system, has grown into a national campaign over high living costs and inequality, with unions demanding wage increases and tax reforms. Violence peaked on October 17, when cars were burned and 1,500 shops in Paris were looted. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez has deployed 70,000 police officers, promising a firm response to unrest, while Paris's mayor has banned the original protest route, drawing complaints from unions.