France protests: Yellow Vest movement resurges as 500,000 rally in Paris and other cities

More than 500,000 protesters rallied across France on Saturday, with violent clashes in Paris and other cities, as the "yellow vest" movement was revived over rising living costs and student grievances. Police made at least 272 arrests and reported numerous violent incidents, including looting and assaults on officers. Demonstrators, responding to social media calls, expressed anger over spikes in gasoline, energy, and food prices. In Paris, police used tear gas and water cannons against masked groups throwing fireworks and stones, while cars were set on fire and shops looted. Violence also hit Lyon, Marseille, and other cities, with damage to public buildings. The protests, backed by student groups and the CGT labor union, come amid a presidential election campaign. Far-left candidate Jean-Luc Mélenchon joined the Paris march, and police suspended a stun grenade type after a teenager lost a hand.