Paris clashes erupt as cost-of-living protests turn violent

Clashes erupted in Paris during a protest against the high cost of living, marking the fourth consecutive weekend of demonstrations. Police used tear gas after some protesters threw objects, causing panic and fainting in the crowd. Around 70,000 people marched in Paris, according to organizers, with about 250,000 participating nationwide, a notably lower turnout than recent protests. The march was mostly peaceful until tensions escalated at the Place de la Nation, where groups attempted to break through a police cordon. Security was reinforced with roughly 70,000 police deployed across the country. The demonstrations included unions, youth groups, and "yellow vests," with concerns remaining about potential further escalation despite the reduced participation.