France engulfed in unrest as fresh clashes erupt in Paris, historic Limoges Town Hall gutted by fire, over 2,000 arrested

PARIS: France is facing widespread unrest as student protests have escalated into violence amid growing discontent over rising living costs. French cities witnessed clashes and destruction on Saturday as student organisations, trade unions and other groups joined demonstrations across the country. Although the protests began peacefully, masked groups and looters unleashed violence in several areas.

Rioters stormed municipal buildings and vandalised property. Government buildings, vehicles and shops were set on fire, while commercial establishments were looted. Security personnel were also attacked, triggering clashes between police and protesters. More than 600 police officers were injured, and over 2,000 people were arrested, according to figures reported on Sunday. One person died after suffering cardiac arrest during the demonstrations in Paris.

The protests began in September when high school students raised concerns over teacher shortages and inadequate school facilities. The movement subsequently expanded as university students, trade unions and other organisations joined in. Demonstrators also raised concerns over soaring inflation, the fuel crisis, budget policies and deteriorating public services. More than 500,000 people took to the streets on Saturday, with attendance estimates varying between the authorities and organisers.

Widespread looting and arson

 Major cities, including Paris, Lyon, Marseille and Bordeaux, were affected. Shops, including supermarkets and luxury retail outlets, were looted during the unrest.

 In Limoges, a 143-year-old town hall that had survived the two World Wars was set ablaze. Its roof and clock tower collapsed. In Lyon, a tourist office was set on fire, while protesters broke into and vandalised the municipal building in Marseille.

 Student organisations and other groups had called for nationwide protests online. However, the violence spread across several cities, with clashes between demonstrators and police continuing in parts of Paris on Sunday.

Trump blames immigration for unrest

US President Donald Trump blamed uncontrolled immigration for the unrest in France, arguing that immigration and border policies had contributed to the country's problems. He called for tighter border controls. US Vice President J.D. Vance also criticised Western liberal policies.

Lecornu blames far-left groups

French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu blamed far-left groups for organising violence in several cities, saying criminals had joined them to loot and destroy property. He also accused France Unbowed (La France insoumise) leader Jean-Luc Mélenchon of bearing political responsibility for stoking anger and providing excuses for those involved in the violence.

Macron vows action against rioters

French President Emmanuel Macron condemned the violence and vowed to hold those responsible accountable. He said those who looted would have to pay for the damage and that those who sought to bring down the Republic would face accountability.