France calm under night curfews as government awaits new weekend protests

France's cities remained calm overnight under curfews imposed after last weekend's violent protests, while groups announced new demonstrations for next Saturday. The government is working to address security failures that left major city centers vulnerable to rioters and looters. Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu credited the targeted curfews for the overnight calm and said the measure could be extended where needed. Justice Minister Gerald Darmanin reported 123 people in detention awaiting trial and around 2,500 in custody for questioning. The protests began as student strikes over education standards but have expanded to broader anger over prices and public services. Student union UNEF pledged to continue pressure on President Emmanuel Macron, while "yellow vests" groups called for actions against fuel costs. The yellow vest movement originated in 2018 over petrol tax plans. Major labour unions, including the CGT, did not join next Saturday's protest calls.