French protests over living costs turn violent as historic town hall burns
Hundreds of thousands protested across France against high living costs, with riots erupting in multiple cities, leaving injuries and destruction. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez reported 550,000 participants, while unions claimed 800,000, and around 1,200 people were arrested. Violence included looting, damaged buildings, and injuries to 150 police officers. In Limoges, a historic listed town hall burned down, with Mayor Guillaume Guérin condemning the "abhorrent" act. Protesters also targeted government buildings in Paris, Marseille, and Lyon, with Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu blaming a "violent far-left" group. The protests drew students and workers over fuel prices, wages, and farming issues, though government response is limited by high debt. Similar demonstrations occurred in Lisbon, Milan, Brussels, and Albania, where police used tear gas and rubber bullets.