French protests turn violent as buildings burn across multiple cities

Violent protests erupted across France on Saturday over cost of living and education, with riot police clashing with demonstrators in Paris and other cities, leading to over 160 arrests and multiple buildings burned or damaged. In Lyon, the tourist office was set ablaze, which the mayor called a tragedy, while protesters in Lille and Marseille broke into city halls, damaging property. Police used water cannons to disperse crowds, and authorities deployed additional riot units to restore order. The demonstrations, driven by student demands for better conditions and broader economic grievances, have continued for over a week. One protester lost a hand in Saint-Étienne, and officials defended their response against what they described as hostile individuals attacking law enforcement.