French protests turn violent, alarming Europe ahead of elections

Violent protests in France over the cost of living escalated into nationwide looting and burning this weekend, raising alarm across Europe as several countries prepare for elections next year. President Emmanuel Macron vowed a "hard line" against rioters, but tensions continued in Paris even during his televised address. The unrest, which drew over half a million people, included attacks on public buildings and shops, with 1,500 storekeepers affected and about 20 Carrefour supermarkets looted. Similar protests turned violent in Italy, Belgium, and Portugal, with Macron linking fuel price spikes to the US's war with Iran. French unions have called for a strike on Nov. 5, and far-right leader Marine Le Pen and far-left rival Jean-Luc Mélenchon traded blame over the violence. Damage costs are estimated in the hundreds of millions of euros, amid deep concerns over public finances and a proposed €43 billion deficit-cutting budget.