French government faces backlash after protest violence; PM blames far-left

France's government faces intense criticism from across the political spectrum following severe violence during Saturday's protests, with Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu blaming the far-left for the unrest. Nearly 1,800 people were arrested during demonstrations that began as student protests over austerity and cost-of-living issues. One person died, one was maimed, and buildings and vehicles were damaged. Lecornu accused Jean-Luc Melenchon's France Unbowed party of inciting chaos, while Melenchon called the prime minister "responsible for the chaos." Far-right leader Marine Le Pen also blamed the far-left, while other opposition figures demanded the interior minister's resignation. Unions have called for new mass demonstrations on November 5, as the government hopes the two-week school break will weaken the movement.