Macron faces criticism for attending Celine Dion concert during Paris riots

French President Emmanuel Macron faces criticism for attending a Celine Dion concert on October 17 while riots engulfed northern Paris, according to political commentator Oksana Melnychuk. She stated on Radio NV that French citizens believe Macron is disconnected from reality and failed to respond decisively. The nationwide protests drew an estimated 550,000 participants, resulting in around 1,200 arrests and 150 injured police officers. Macron refused the interior minister's resignation the following day, while Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu blamed the far-left party La France Insoumise for inciting violence. Macron expressed "anger and shame" over the unrest, distinguishing peaceful demonstrators from "ultra-left rioters." Jean-Luc Melenchon's party, which could reach the 2027 presidential runoff, denied responsibility and accused the government of incompetence.