French Protests Draw 500,000, Leave One Dead and 1,800 Arrested

Protests against the cost of living in France turned violent on Saturday, leaving one dead, over 500 police injured, and nearly 1,800 arrested, prompting President Emmanuel Macron to promise strict punishment for acts of violence. More than 500,000 people took to the streets in dozens of cities, according to the Interior Ministry. The demonstrations merged a month-long student movement with broader public anger over inflation and public service cuts, with radical groups clashing with security forces. The death in Paris was from a heart attack. Vandalism included a fire that partially destroyed Limoges' 143-year-old city hall and looting of around 100 shops in Bordeaux. Macron will address the nation, while similar protests occurred in other European countries.