France deploys 70,000 police to curb violence at protests over living costs

France deployed thousands of police Saturday to prevent violence at protests over school funding and living costs, after last weekend saw looting and attacks on public buildings. Paris authorities restricted the main march to the city's southeastern edge. Up to 70,000 officers were deployed nationwide, backed by helicopters and armored vehicles. Police used tear gas in Lyon and Clermont-Ferrand, while thousands marched peacefully in Paris and Orléans. The movement, sparked by high school staff shortages, has grown into a national protest over living standards. More than half a million people protested last Saturday, with 3,000 shops damaged. Major museums closed, and some rallies were banned, drawing criticism from trade unions. President Macron, at low popularity, met high school representatives but protesters demand concrete measures.