Macron condemns violence as France faces protests and riots

French President Emmanuel Macron condemned the violence during nationwide protests and announced a full investigation into the events, following Saturday's riots that saw shops looted and vehicles and buildings set on fire, with over 2,000 arrests reported by the interior ministry. In a Sunday evening televised address, Macron said "nothing justifies, explains, or excuses" the violence, blaming "divisive actors from far-left circles joined by numerous criminals" while urging that peaceful demonstrators not be confused with those who destroyed property. He announced a review of police operations and plans to give prefects and mayors authority to ban certain gatherings, while calling for talks with students, teachers, parliamentarians, unions, and business representatives this week. The protests, triggered by high living costs and education system grievances, drew around 550,000 participants nationwide according to government figures, with organizers claiming 800,000. Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu described "extreme levels of violence" from a "very organized, opaque far-left group," reporting over 2,400 arrests and more than 1,000 injured police and firefighters. The historic town hall in Limoges burned down, and new clashes erupted in Paris on Sunday, with political figures including Marine Le Pen and presidential candidates reacting to the crisis ahead of next year's election.