France unrest: 1,000 arrested as cost-of-living protests turn violent

Nearly 1,000 people were arrested in France as nationwide protests over the rising cost of living and underfunded public services turned violent, with clashes and tear gas reported in major cities. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez confirmed the arrest toll and warned it would likely increase. The French government estimated around 410,000 protesters marched nationwide, while organizers claimed nearly 800,000. In Paris, police dispersed a demonstration along the Cours de Vincennes, deploying water cannons and tear gas after projectiles were thrown, with over 500 rioters reportedly present at the march's end. Violence also spread to Lyon, Lille, Marseille, Montpellier, Nantes, and Toulouse. The protests, which began over a month ago with student demonstrations about school conditions, have expanded to include trade unions and the "Yellow Vests" movement. Left-wing leader Jean-Luc Melenchon criticized police tactics, while former US President Donald Trump blamed France's immigration policies.