Macron limits weekend protests to authorized union demos only

French President Emmanuel Macron announced that only authorized union demonstrations will be permitted in French towns and cities on Saturday, following violent protests last weekend, with some cities like Lyon and Nice imposing complete bans. Macron stated that "illegitimate" protests would be banned, while union organizations would be offered alternative routes proposed by prefects to protect businesses. Interior Minister Jean-Didier Berger said law enforcement presence would be 20% higher than last weekend, and at least 2,500 people have been arrested since the disorder began. The unrest stemmed from demonstrations against the high cost of living and school conditions, which were overshadowed by riots and looting that destroyed businesses and historic buildings. Macron attributed the violence to "far-left groups" attempting to undermine the Republic, while curfews have been imposed in several cities including Marseille, Bordeaux, and Nice.