French police and protesters clash in worst unrest in years

Violent clashes erupted between police and protesters across France on Saturday, with hundreds of thousands demonstrating against rising costs and declining public services in some of the country's most destructive unrest in years. At least 272 people were arrested, and incidents occurred in Paris, Marseille, Toulouse, Angers, and Lyon. The protests began last month at high schools in Paris' poor northern suburbs over teacher shortages and shabby facilities, evolving into a broader movement focused on inequality and living standards. Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu blamed the violence on the "far-left" and criminals, vowing not to be intimidated ahead of next year's presidential election. Smaller-scale protests also hit Belgium, Portugal, Italy, and Albania over similar economic grievances. French police tactics face scrutiny after injuries, including a teenager who lost a hand, with the police watchdog investigating at least two dozen allegations of violence.