French PM denies police ordered to confront student protesters

French Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu denied allegations that police were ordered to confront protesting student high schoolers in Paris. The government plans to release a strategy addressing the crisis by the end of October, amidst mounting allegations of police brutality following days of protests that have caused major injuries and arrests.

Hundreds of students, police officers, and school staff have been injured since the movement demanding improved conditions in high schools began, with over 6,500 people, mostly minors, arrested. Following complaints from rights groups, unions, and students that authorities used disproportionate force, the government suspended police use of stun grenades during demonstrations led by high school students.

In a televised address, Lecornu affirmed that France could not remain indifferent to students' concerns and promised to present the crisis response plan at the end of October. However, student organizations called for renewed protests and fresh strikes on Thursday.