Scuffles and fires break out as protesters rally across France, joining students

On Saturday, clashes erupted between protesters and police in France in the lead-up to nationwide demonstrations, according to media reports. These protests were set to involve several hundred thousand people across the country, with incidents already reported in major cities such as Lyon, Marseille, and Paris. The unrest had already affected Place de la République in the capital, leading up to the authorized demonstrations scheduled to commence from Paris's central square.

A police station in Marseille was reportedly vandalized, while the headquarters of right-wing TV channel CNews came under attack, as confirmed by authorities.

The Interior Minister, Laurent Nuñez, reported that over 160 individuals had been arrested nationwide by midday. Students, farmers, and members of the Yellow Jacket movement, among others, were scheduled to participate in the "convergence of struggles," protesting rising living costs, low wages, and significant disagreements with the government. The government anticipated a "fairly large turnout", according to Nuñez, who made these remarks on Friday.

These demonstrations stemmed from the student protests that began last month, initially focused on school blockades and demands for improved study conditions, more teachers, and increased funding. The movement has since gained nationwide traction and has become a political issue as the campaign for the upcoming presidential election intensifies.

The government has found it challenging to manage the crisis, which Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu characterized as "urban violence". The government is now hoping that the student movement will dissipate due to a two-week school holiday that commenced on Friday evening.

Nuñez's office noted that the mobilization was marked by a strong involvement of the ultra-left movement, which appeared intent on causing disorder. The minister reiterated his instructions for strict action to local prefects and police forces. Despite numerous reports of police brutality, the government has defended its response to the student protests. The use of "stun grenades" was authorized on Saturday following a temporary ban on their use against students.

Notably, far-left presidential candidate Jean-Luc Mélenchon is supporting the protesters, while far-right leader Jordan Bardella pledged his backing for the police. This evolving situation is being reported by Victor Goury-Laffont.