French protests over cost of living turn violent in Paris and Marseille

Protests against the high cost of living took place across France on Saturday, with peaceful demonstrations in Paris and Marseille marred by violent incidents. The mobilization united gilets jaunes, students, unions, and left-wing parties. Organizers called for the government to tax billionaires and large corporations to fund public services and education. The CGT union's Sophie Binet said the common demand is "stop to the high cost of living," with protests initially sparked by student unions in mid-September. Paris police banned demonstrations near the Elysée and Matignon, authorizing two marches from Place de la République. Clashes were reported in both Paris and Marseille, where tensions ran high.