Macron appeals for calm as France counts cost of worst unrest in years

President Emmanuel Macron appealed for calm on Sunday after France experienced its worst day of unrest in years, with thousands arrested and widespread looting and damage following protests over high prices and public services. Fresh clashes erupted in Paris and Marseille as riot police intervened. The government blamed ultra-left groups and criminals for the violence, which included a torched town hall and 2,400 arrests, while nearly 1,000 officers were injured. More than half a million people joined peaceful marches, but violent fringe groups targeted public buildings and shops. Macron stopped short of declaring a state of emergency but said prefects could ban protests if needed. Retailer Carrefour reported 50 shops damaged, with losses in the tens of millions of euros.