France unrest: 70,000 police deployed, 135 arrested as protests spread

France deployed up to 70,000 police officers nationwide on Saturday as protests over living costs, wages, and school funding spread, with 135 people arrested and weapons seized. Authorities restricted a Paris march and closed major museums to prevent a repeat of last week's violence. The protests began over high school staff shortages but expanded into a broader movement, with students demanding more university places and workers seeking higher wages and pensions. Police used tear gas in several cities, and some demonstrations were banned in Lyon, Nice, and Montpellier. The unrest adds pressure on President Emmanuel Macron, whose popularity is at its lowest since 2017, with protesters calling for his resignation. Similar demonstrations occurred in Italy, Spain, and Albania, reflecting broader European discontent.