Macron blames ultra-left groups as France bans protests in Paris, Lyon, Lille, Grenoble

France is facing a political and security crisis after nationwide protests over living costs and public services turned violent, prompting President Emmanuel Macron to blame "seditious" ultra-left groups for exploiting the unrest and undermining the Republic. Following the October 17 riots, Macron announced plans to ban what he called illegitimate demonstrations while allowing organized trade union protests to continue under restrictions and alternative routes. Authorities have imposed protest bans in parts of Paris, Lyon, Lille, and Grenoble. The government cited concerns over further violence and vandalism as the reason for the targeted bans, which aim to distinguish between sanctioned labor actions and unauthorized gatherings.