French President Emmanuel Macron has called for calm after protests over rising fuel prices, the cost of living and deteriorating public services escalated into rioting and looting across the country.
In a national address on Sunday, Macron condemned the violence, saying, “We all feel anger and shame,” while insisting that “nothing justifies” the destruction.
About 550,000 people joined Saturday’s demonstrations, while France’s Interior Ministry reported about 2,400 arrests. Police also reported that about 1,000 officers were injured, seven of them seriously.
Clashes and looting continued on a smaller scale on Sunday in Paris and Lyon, while a fire during the unrest gutted the historic city hall in Limoges, causing its clock tower and roof to collapse.
Macron promised “full transparency” over the police response and said authorities would strengthen protection for businesses and public buildings.
Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu is scheduled to hold a crisis cabinet meeting on Monday as the government faces pressure to restore order and address public anger over living costs and public services.
The unrest has also highlighted deep political divisions ahead of France’s April election, with left- and right-wing leaders trading accusations over the violence and the authorities’ response.
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