French unions stage nationwide strikes over cost of living

France is experiencing nationwide protests and strikes after five unions declared a national day of action, joined by high school students and demonstrators over the rising cost of living. Union leader Sophie Binet said over 250,000 people took to the streets in nearly 70 cities by Thursday afternoon, calling it "only the beginning." The Interior Ministry reported 600,000 participants nationwide, with 70,000 police mobilized to maintain order. Protests disrupted schools, hospitals, and transport, forcing the closure of the Eiffel Tower and some Louvre galleries. Unions demand higher wages, including a 100-euro monthly net increase and a raise to the minimum wage, currently 12.31 euros per hour. The demonstrations stem from September protests over poor conditions in French high schools, later expanding to include workers and "yellow vest" activists. Clashes occurred in Lyon and Rennes, and unions have called for further actions Friday and Saturday.