Macron Urges Calm as France Braces for Nationwide Protests

French President Emmanuel Macron has called for "calm and respect" ahead of nationwide protests scheduled for Saturday, October 17, while expressing support for police facing "extreme violence." Authorities anticipate around 250 demonstrations and 80 marches across France. Paris police have banned protests in several strategic areas, including near the Élysée Palace, Matignon, and the Champs-Élysées, with undeclared gatherings prohibited from 7am to 10pm. Organizers, including student groups and gilets jaunes, have yet to reach agreement with authorities on approved routes, with some demanding access to "places of power." A BFMTV poll shows 69% of French people support the mobilization against rising living costs, particularly among younger demographics. Intelligence services expect between 60,000 and 110,000 protesters nationwide outside Paris, with concerns about potential violence from far-left groups.