French general strike draws up to 1.6 million protesters nationwide

A general strike in France drew between 600,000 and 1.6 million protesters, according to government and organizer estimates, demanding higher wages, tax reforms, and better student conditions. The protests, called by unions, saw 448 arrests and 53 officers injured amid scattered clashes, including a school fire near Toulouse. Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu has scheduled a social conference for Monday to address purchasing power concerns. The movement, which began with student protests a month ago, has become a presidential campaign issue, with candidates reacting to the demonstrations. Yellow vest activists have promised further protests this weekend.