Trump Blames Immigrants for France Unrest, Officials Cite School Costs
US President Donald Trump blamed immigration for unrest in France, claiming immigrants with "hatred in their hearts" shattered the country, while French officials reported the protests began over school conditions and cost-of-living concerns. The nationwide demonstrations, sparked by student demands for more teachers, drew 550,000 attendees per the interior ministry, with unions estimating 800,000. Violence led to 1,800 arrests, including 855 in Paris, and damage to shops and public buildings. Trump and Vice President JD Vance linked the unrest to immigration, though reported demands center on prices and public services. The protests occur six months before presidential elections, with France's economy strained by debt and rising fuel costs.