French minister admits police lost control of weekend protests

French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez admitted police "lost control" in some cities during weekend protests, saying he offered his resignation to President Emmanuel Macron, who refused it. Nunez cited a "lack of anticipation" in preparations and took responsibility for the unrest. Macron blamed far-left activists and criminals for the violence, which included attacks on public buildings and looting in Paris, Marseille, Lyon, and Bordeaux. Authorities reported about 550,000 marchers, at least 2,400 arrests, and one death from a heart attack, with investigations opened into injuries. The protests, sparked by rising living costs and school conditions, drew comparisons to the 2018 "yellow vest" movement. Political figures, including Marine Le Pen and Donald Trump, weighed in, while mayors of major cities requested a government meeting over the damage.