Macron Urges Calm as French Protests Erupt into Riots, Looting and Mass Arrests

Speaking in a national address from the Élysée Palace, Macron acknowledged the public’s frustration over rising fuel prices, the increasing cost of living and declining public services, including schools. He urged demonstrators not to allow tensions to escalate further, stating, “We all feel anger and shame.”

An estimated 550,000 people joined demonstrations across France, with the majority of protest activities remaining peaceful. The French president stressed the importance of distinguishing between citizens expressing legitimate grievances and those responsible for acts of violence and destruction.

Macron said the concerns raised by protesters deserved attention and recognition, but firmly condemned those who used the demonstrations as an opportunity to engage in criminal behaviour. He described the violence as “unbridled” and insisted that “nothing justifies” the destruction witnessed during the unrest.

French authorities have arrested approximately 2,400 people in connection with the disturbances, according to the Interior Ministry. Law enforcement agencies have launched extensive operations to restore order and identify those involved in vandalism, looting and attacks on public property.

Violent groups, many reportedly dressed in black and concealing their identities with masks and balaclavas, appeared in Paris, Marseille and several other towns and cities. Rioters set fire to cars and buildings, while clashes with police and widespread property damage added to tensions during one of the country’s most turbulent protest weekends in recent years.

As France grapples with growing economic pressures and public dissatisfaction, Macron has signalled support for peaceful democratic expression while warning that those responsible for violence and destruction will face the full force of the law.