Violent clashes erupted across France as hundreds of thousands protested rising costs and declining public services; the Interior Ministry reported at least 272 arrests. The unrest comes as France's government borrowing costs have reached their highest levels in over two decades.
Police and protesters clashed in several French cities on Saturday, including Paris, Marseille, Toulouse, Angers and Lyon. The Interior Ministry said at least 272 people had been arrested after violent incidents. The CGT union estimated 800,000 people took part in protests across France, while the ministry gave no estimate.
Protesters cited the cost of living, fuel prices, teacher shortages and public services. Police used tear gas in parts of Paris, where shops were shuttered and windows smashed; fires and damage were also reported in other cities. The movement began at Paris-area high schools last month and broadened to focus on inequality, public spending and living standards.
Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu said the government would not be intimidated by violence and blamed the unrest on the far left and criminals. France's efforts to reduce public debt have not reassured investors, and government borrowing costs have reached their highest levels in over two decades. A police watchdog is investigating at least two dozen allegations of police violence.
