Protests spread across France as 550,000 march against living costs

Violent protests erupted across France as hundreds of thousands marched against rising living costs and poor school conditions, with clashes, fires, and looting reported nationwide. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez reported about 400 arrests and stated 110 marches drew roughly 550,000 people, while organisers like the CGT union claimed 800,000 participants. He blamed "extremely violent, radical far-left groups" and looters for the destruction. The demonstrations, which continue into the week, are now spreading across Europe, according to reports. Most of those arrested are adults, and targets included city halls and local government offices.