France Imposes Curfews as Riots Shake Paris and Other Cities

French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu announced Monday measures to combat nationwide riots, including partial curfews, following weekend violence that saw looting and arson in Paris and other cities. Lecornu blamed the unrest on the "ultra-left spectrum" and general criminality, calling for a "determined criminal justice response" and a "massive legal operation" starting Monday. He also promised partial unemployment benefits for affected businesses starting Tuesday. The Louvre museum in Paris remained closed due to a student protest movement, with officials apologizing for the inconvenience. The prefect of the northern zone issued a curfew from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. for two days in Lille, Douai, Wattignies, and Denain.