Macron Vows to Hold Accountable Those Who ‘Sought to Bring Down France’
French President Emmanuel Macron has expressed anger and shame over violent protests that spread across several parts of France. The demonstrations were driven by public frustration over rising living costs and poor conditions in schools. According to reports, at least 1,800 people have been arrested in connection with the unrest.
Macron warned that people involved in looting, vandalism and attacks on public property would be held responsible for their actions. He said those who tried to damage the country and create disorder would face legal consequences. The president also blamed radical far-left groups and criminal elements for encouraging or carrying out violence during the protests.
Following the incidents, Macron met with senior government officials to discuss the situation and steps to restore order. Protesters had reportedly set fires and attacked public buildings, including town halls, in several cities. He instructed local authorities to work closely with mayors to protect government buildings, shops and other businesses. He also said demonstrations could be banned in areas where necessary to prevent further violence.
One of the worst incidents took place in Limoges, where a fire destroyed a large part of the city’s historic 19th-century City Hall. The damage raised concerns about the safety of public buildings and the loss of important historical structures.
In Paris, hundreds of protesters gathered to express their anger over the issues that had led to the demonstrations. However, tensions increased when some groups allegedly attempted to cause damage. Police used tear gas to disperse crowds and prevent further destruction. Streets were left covered with broken glass and cobblestones, while several statues and public structures were reportedly damaged.
Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez said that peaceful demonstrations were a basic right, but violence and destruction could not be accepted. He stressed that people had the right to express their concerns, provided they did so peacefully and within the law.
The protests attracted large crowds across the country. Estimates indicated that more than 550,000 people took part, while organisers claimed the total number was closer to 800,000. The difference between the figures reflected the varying estimates provided by authorities and protest organisers.
The unrest also affected residents and businesses, particularly in Paris. Many people were shocked by the scale of the destruction. One person reportedly died after suffering a heart attack, and authorities were investigating the circumstances surrounding the death.
The protests also became a major political issue ahead of next year’s elections. Far-right leader Marine Le Pen criticised Macron’s government, accusing it of failing to manage the crisis effectively. Meanwhile, far-left leader Jean-Luc Mélenchon criticised the prime minister’s handling of the situation. Political leaders from different sides used the unrest to raise questions about the government’s response to public concerns.
The developments also attracted attention in the United States. President Donald Trump commented on the unrest and linked it to immigration. However, French authorities had not established immigration as the cause of the violence described in the reports. Instead, officials pointed to the involvement of radical groups and people accused of looting and damaging property.
As investigations continue, the French government faces the challenge of restoring public order while addressing the concerns that brought people onto the streets. Authorities are expected to continue assessing the damage, investigating criminal acts and taking steps to protect public buildings and businesses. The situation has also renewed debate over the cost of living, public services and the right to protest peacefully.