France deploys 70,000 police as 500,000 expected at protests

France has deployed 70,000 police and gendarmes nationwide this Thursday ahead of strikes and protests over the rising cost of living and deteriorating public services, with 500,000 to 700,000 people expected to participate. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez said intelligence services detected far-left groups potentially planning violent acts, with around 220 demonstrations expected. Authorities fear these groups may attack shops, security forces, and public buildings during the mass gatherings. Unions, students, and yellow vest protesters are participating, following October 17 riots that left over 1,000 officers injured and nearly 1,000 arrests. Security measures include riot units, armored vehicles, water cannons, helicopters, drones, and social media surveillance.