Macron vows firm action as French unions threaten strikes

French President Emmanuel Macron renewed his call for firm action against those responsible for violence during cost-of-living protests, while Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu met with unions to discuss demands and ensure protest security. Macron said "the state's hand must not tremble" in punishing rioters, citing security measures for restoring calm. Paris police banned gatherings near key institutions Thursday, with curfews in Marseille and Toulouse. Unions threatened strikes from November 5 after talks yielded no immediate measures. Political criticism mounted from Marine Le Pen and former presidents, while French 10-year bond yields briefly exceeded 5 percent. A Senate committee approved a bill holding vandals liable for damages, and prosecutors reported 300 of 557 arrested suspects appeared in court.