Macron vows to hold accountable those who 'sought to bring down the Republic'

French President Emmanuel Macron vowed Sunday to hold accountable those who "sought to bring down the Republic" after rioting and looting during nationwide protests against rising living costs, with at least 1,800 people arrested. Macron blamed "unrestrained violence" on "insurrectionist elements from radical far-left groups, joined by numerous criminals," and said looters will pay for damage. He instructed prefects to protect public buildings, including banning protests when necessary, after masked groups attacked city halls in several cities. About 550,000 people protested nationwide, according to authorities, with organizers citing 800,000. The unrest, which included the burning of Limoges' 19th-century City Hall, revived the "yellow vest" movement as political leaders positioned ahead of next spring's presidential election.