Who Benefits from Chaos in France: Macron's Critics and Le Pen's Rise

Mass protests in France have escalated into street violence, with political analyst Oksana Melnychuk stating that far-right leader Marine Le Pen stands to benefit politically from the chaos ahead of the 2027 presidential election. The demonstrations began as peaceful marches by French high school students, joined by trade unions and "yellow vest" activists, but radical "black bloc" groups have integrated into the crowds and attacked police. Around 500,000 young people participated in the October 17 march, while many universities remain closed. French citizens are criticizing President Emmanuel Macron for indecisiveness in his response to the crisis. Le Pen, who has previously stated she would halt aid to Ukraine if elected president, is reportedly seeing her political standing strengthened by the unrest.