French protests draw 600,000 as cost-of-living anger spreads

More than 600,000 people protested across France on Thursday against rising living costs and public service cuts, with police firing tear gas and cars torched in several cities. The demonstrations mark the largest mobilization since October 17. Five major unions coordinated strikes demanding higher wages, tax reforms, and increased public investment, with turnout estimated at 1.57 million by the CGT union. Violence erupted in Lyon, Bordeaux, and Rennes, while 70,000 security personnel were deployed nationwide. The unrest began in September with student protests and has expanded to include teachers, hospital workers, and farmers. The government faces pressure over budget cuts, with a social conference scheduled for Monday and further Yellow Vest protests planned.