Violent protests in France

Protests across France erupted over rising living costs and education support after weeks of student mobilizations.

Macron's televised address

Macron spoke about the violence, saying nothing justifies burning Limoges city hall or attacking French institutions.

“Watching these images, we all asked ourselves: What are they thinking? How can French people do this to France? Why burn down the Limoges city hall, the tourist office in Lyon, storm the Marseille city hall, or attack the prefect’s residence in Bordeaux? How could they have gone this far? Nothing justifies it, nothing explains it. Nothing excuses it”

Crisis task force announced

Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu will chair a task force to address business owners affected by vandalism starting Monday.

Legal consequences demanded

Macron called for 'exemplary' legal action against rioters and looters, stating listening does not mean weakness.

“Those who destroyed property must pay, those who looted must reimburse, and those who sought to bring down the Republic will be held accountable”

Arrests and injuries reported

Over 2,000 people were arrested, and more than 600 police and firefighters were injured across France.

“According to Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez, more than 2,000 people were arrested across France, and more than 600 police officers and firefighters were injured”

Political reactions

Socialist mayor Emmanuel Grégoire and opposition leaders criticized Macron's address as ineffective or dismissive.

“There’s no need to stage all this, the Greens are very clear: we condemn all violence”

Next steps for France

Macron emphasized the need for fair presidential elections in six months and public dialogue over street violence.

“The choices about the future that you, and we, will have to make in six months are essential. And France is a great democratic force. It deserves these debates. They must take place in public forums. They must involve the political parties, not take place in the streets through violence”