French protests turn violent as police fire tear gas in multiple cities

Large protests across France have turned violent, with police firing tear gas at demonstrators in several cities. Clashes occurred in Paris, Lyon, Lille, Toulouse, Nantes, and Montpellier, prompting authorities to deploy over 70,000 security personnel nationwide. In Paris, demonstrators set fire to trash bins at the march's endpoint, and police responded with tear gas, water cannons, and stun grenades. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez warned Saturday that violence and public order disturbances would not be tolerated. Police estimate 110,000 people attended the Paris protest, while unions claim 800,000 demonstrated nationwide. The protests follow last weekend's riots and looting, leading shopkeepers to board up windows. Demonstrator Michel said society needs to change "away from capitalism," while another protester, Julien Hugo, argued destruction is "the price" of police cracking down on demonstrations. Protests also targeted a far-right National Rally meeting in Orléans.