Macron calls for ‘calm and order’ after riots across France

French President Emmanuel Macron urged calm and order on Saturday after protests against rising fuel prices, the cost of living, and deteriorating public services turned violent, resulting in looting and arson in major cities. In a televised address from the Élysée Palace, Macron cautioned participants not to "escalate" the unrest, stating, "We all feel anger and shame."

Approximately 550,000 people demonstrated peacefully, but some 2,400 were arrested by police. Macron emphasized that the legitimate demands of protesters should be distinguished from those who engaged in destruction, stating that "nothing justifies" the "unbridled" violence. Rioters, many in black with masks and balaclavas, targeted Paris, Marseille, and other cities, setting fire to cars and buildings.

On Sunday, looting and clashes with police persisted in parts of the capital and Lyon, with tear gas and stun grenades used by authorities against demonstrators. Cities across France grappled with the aftermath of one of the worst episodes of disorder in modern French history. In Limoges, rioting caused extensive damage to the city hall, with its clock tower and roof collapsing under the flames.

The interior ministry reported that about 1,000 officers were injured on Saturday, including seven seriously. Macron pledged full transparency on the police's response and pledged to draft measures to protect shops and civic buildings.