French police arrest nearly 1,000 as protests draw hundreds of thousands

French police arrested nearly 1,000 people during nationwide protests today, Interior Minister Nuñez announced, expecting the number to rise. He reported 410,000 demonstrators, while unions claim 800,000 participated. Nuñez credited police intervention with preventing looting and attacks on public buildings, following last weekend's riots. About 70,000 extra officers and military support were deployed. The minister faced criticism last week for inadequate preparation and offered his resignation, which President Macron rejected. Protests target government policy, education, and living costs. Most marches were peaceful, but clashes occurred in Paris, Nice, Lyon, Marseille, and Lille, with police using tear gas and water cannons. Similar demonstrations took place in several European cities.