Macron calls for calm after violent protests across France

Nearly 2,300 people were arrested and around 100 police officers injured in violent protests across France on Saturday, prompting President Emmanuel Macron to call for calm and order. A 140-year-old town hall clock tower in Limoges collapsed after being set on fire. The interior ministry reported 855 arrests in Paris alone, a record number, and one person died of cardiac arrest during the demonstrations. Macron condemned the violence, promising that those who destroyed property would be prosecuted, while the government scheduled a crisis meeting for Monday morning. The unrest began as school protests but drew in unions and the Yellow Vests movement, with authorities blaming far-left groups and criminals. Analysts say the violence, including attacks on state symbols, marks a new intensity level and comes at a politically sensitive time ahead of next spring's presidential election.