French protests spread to Paris, Lyon, and Marseille with 21 arrests

Protests continue across France on October 17, with unauthorized marches dispersed in Paris and incidents reported in Lyon and Marseille. Police used tear gas in Place de la République, and 21 arrests were made during a blockade of CNews offices. Around 200,000 protesters were expected nationwide, with 40,000 in Paris. In Marseille, demonstrators briefly entered a city hall atrium and attacked a police station. In Rennes, burning barricades blocked traffic, while authorities dispersed groups attempting to block roads in Lyon. The protests aim to unite student and yellow vest movements against the cost of living. President Emmanuel Macron appealed for calm, while Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez warned that blockades of essential infrastructure would not be tolerated.