Macron vows to be 'relentless' against rioters, spares peaceful protesters

French President Emmanuel Macron addressed the nation on Sunday, one day after riots shook several French cities, vowing to be "relentless" against those responsible for looting and violence while distinguishing them from peaceful protesters. Macron blamed "seditious individuals from far-left groups, joined by numerous delinquents" for the destruction, fires, and attacks on public buildings, and called on political parties and unions to "condemn without ambiguity all acts of violence." He promised punishments for looters, reparations for damages, and announced a crisis cell to support shopkeepers, while also demanding explanations for intelligence failures and considering banning certain gatherings. Macron acknowledged the legitimate concerns of students, teachers, and unions over the cost of living, pledging dialogue on those issues.