French protests draw 200,000 as police clash with demonstrators in Paris and Marseille

Protests erupted across France on Saturday as students, unions, and "Yellow Vest" activists demonstrated against high prices, the cost-of-living crisis, and school conditions, with clashes and tear gas reported in Paris and Marseille. Police estimate nearly 40,000 people are demonstrating in Paris, with up to 200,000 expected nationwide across roughly 500 planned actions. Authorities used tear gas at Place de la République, while protesters chanted for President Macron's resignation and against the far right. The demonstrations follow four weeks of student protests that have injured hundreds, including police and students. The government has opened 36 investigations into alleged police brutality, while Prime Minister Lecornu warned of a "wave of urban violence" amid a national debt crisis.