French protests over living costs draw 400,000, clashes in Paris and other cities

More than 400,000 people demonstrated across France on Saturday against the rising cost of living, according to the Interior Ministry, as police used tear gas to prevent protesters in several cities from advancing toward city centers. The ministry reported around 410,000 participants nationwide, including 110,000 in Paris, slightly fewer than last week's 550,000. The CGT union claimed 800,000 protesters, with 250,000 in the capital. Clashes erupted in Paris, where police used batons, tear gas, and water cannons, arresting 65 people. The protests, involving students, unions, and Yellow Vest activists, come six months before presidential elections. Authorities deployed 70,000 police officers, while far-right leader Marine Le Pen held a rally in Orleans. President Macron met student organizations Friday, promising concrete measures by Monday.