French strikes draw up to 700,000 protesters in 260 cities

France is experiencing a day of strikes and protests, with demonstrations planned in 260 cities and up to 700,000 protesters expected. Unions are joined by yellow vests, students, and farmers. Authorities anticipate 40,000 to 80,000 protesters in Paris alone, where Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez has deployed 70,000 police and gendarmes, promising a firm response to violence. Transport disruptions are already affecting trains and subways. The Paris march route was settled late Wednesday when an administrative court approved the prefecture's proposed path from République to Nation, rejecting unions' request for a route through the city center.