France: 1,200 Detained and 150 Police Officers Injured at Cost-of-Living Protests
About 550,000 people took part in protests across France on Saturday against the high cost of living and fuel prices. Clashes with police led to 1,200 detentions and 150 injured officers.
Nationwide protests against the rising cost of living and high fuel prices took place in France on Saturday. According to the Interior Ministry, roughly 550,000 people took part. In several cities, including the capital Paris and the port city of Marseille, demonstrations turned into clashes with police.
Detentions and injuries
French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu said on Saturday evening that 1,200 people had been detained across the country and 150 police officers injured. He admitted it was a "miracle" that the number of casualties was not higher.
To disperse protesters, police used water cannon and tear gas. Arson and looting also occurred in several cities during the protests. Paris and Marseille were the main flashpoints, and rapid-response police units were deployed in the capital.
The president's statement
French President Emmanuel Macron stated on the platform X that there is no place for violence in France. He said those who disrupted public order, attacked prefectures and businesses, and even looted city halls would be held accountable and punished. Macron also expressed support, on behalf of the whole nation, for the law enforcement officers who safeguard citizens' right to protest.
The source does not specify what prompted the protests to be held on this particular day or what steps are expected next.
