Paris clashes erupt before cost-of-living protest, police blame ultra-left

Tensions erupted in Paris on Saturday before a cost-of-living protest march began, with police using tear gas against masked individuals near Place de la République. The Interior Ministry attributed the clashes to the "ultra-left" seeking to create disorder. Authorities reported 140 actions and 32,800 participants in the provinces by midday, with 60,000 to 110,000 expected nationwide. The mobilization unites youth, including high school students, and workers angered by fuel and food price spikes, ahead of the 2026 presidential election. The ministry cited violent acts in Paris, Marseille, Rennes, Toulouse, and Angers, including attempted looting, fires, and targeting of media, such as CNews' headquarters. Some roundabout occupations occurred, but few full blockades have been observed so far.