Macron attacks ‘stupid’ claims by Trump and others blaming migrants for riots

Paris police imposed a ban on protests Thursday as France anticipated additional demonstrations, following weeks of unrest that has shaken the nation. President Emmanuel Macron directed the ban, which will span from 8am to 8pm (0600 to 1800 GMT), at key sites including the Elysee presidential palace, both chambers of parliament, and popular tourist spots like the Louvre museum and Champs-Elysees.

Further prohibited zones consist of Bastille and Republique squares, and the bustling Chatelet-Les Halles shopping area, which saw heavy looting over the weekend. The ban applies to France's capital, as well as regions like Bastille and Republique squares, and the Chatelet-Les Halles shopping area. France admitted to losing control during last weekend's violence, with masked youths clashing with police, breaking into shops, and damaging public facilities.

Macron accused Trump and possibly Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of capitalizing on the unrest for political gain. He accused the leaders of campaigning against France, both in Europe and the United States. Trump has accused migrants, jihadists, and communists for the unrest, while praising far-right leader Marine Le Pen, who is leading polls for the 2027 presidential election.

Analysts have dismissed claims that migrants are driving the protests. The unrest overshadowed demonstrations on Saturday, where over half a million people marched nationwide to protest rising living costs. The government warned it would not tolerate further violence, and demonstrations by high school and university students have been banned in Paris and Lyon.

The higher education union CGT called for a new phase of protests with strikes early next month. France's financial markets, already anxious over the country's growing debt, saw the yield on its 10-year bond exceed 5% due to fiscal concerns. Ratings agency Moody's is expected to lower its rating on France's public debt on Friday.

Similar unrest is being seen in Italy and Belgium, with Italy deploying troops to Milan to quell street violence. While curfews in several cities have helped calm the situation, they have disrupted late-night public transport. One Paris commuter, Louis, expressed mixed feelings about the measures, stating that they are disconcerting but necessary to prevent further vandalism.

The Yellow Vest movement, behind last weekend's demonstrations, announced plans for a march on Saturday from Bastille square in Paris, followed by nationwide demonstrations on Nov 5.