Macron condemns "unbridled" violence in French cost-of-living protests

French President Emmanuel Macron addressed the nation on Sunday, 18 October, and sharply condemned the "unbridled" violence that has erupted in protests against the cost of living across France. Ahead of his address, fresh clashes took place in Paris, where police fought both demonstrators and looters. The unrest has become a serious domestic political test for the government, as the protests span the whole country.

Arrests and injuries

The interior ministry said nearly 2,400 people had been arrested and at least 1,000 police officers and gendarmes had been injured.

What happened on Saturday

The day before, demonstrations continued nationwide, with an estimated 800,000 people taking part. Students, trade unions and members of the yellow vest movement joined forces to protest against austerity measures and high living costs.

During the protests, looters took advantage of the situation to raid and vandalise many shops and businesses across France. Bakeries, supermarkets and technology stores were among those targeted. One protester's hand was blown off by a police crowd-control grenade.

News agencies report that the situation is changing quickly, and official figures on arrests and injuries may be updated.