France's crisis: violent riots, teen maimings, and political deadlock

France is in a deep social and political crisis following its most severe riots in years, with over half a million protesters and widespread violence over the weekend. The unrest has left a path of destruction, including vandalized shops and burned municipal buildings, triggering a bitter blame game between the government and opposition. The protests, which began with student demonstrations over school conditions, have expanded to include labor unions and citizens angry about the cost of living and fuel prices. Authorities report roughly 2,000 arrests and are investigating at least 34 cases of alleged police brutality, including the maiming of a 15-year-old. The political fallout is intensifying as the government and far-right leaders blame the left for the chaos, while the left accuses the government of incompetence. This crisis is complicating France's budget reform efforts and boosting far-right leader Marine Le Pen's prospects ahead of next spring's presidential election.