FRANCE: Rocked by Deadly Riots as Macron Vows Crackdown on Violence

FRANCE: Rocked by Deadly Riots as Macron Vows Crackdown on Violence
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Civil Unrest In Paris
A demonstrator stands as flames rise behind them, during civil unrest, the day after a national day of demonstrations against the cost of living and rising fuel prices, in Paris, France, October 18, 2026. REUTERS/Abdul Saboor TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY

France is reeling from some of its worst civil unrest in years after massive demonstrations Saturday descended into deadly riots, looting and arson across the country.

At least two people were killed, hundreds of police officers were injured and more than 2,400 people were arrested as violence spread through Paris, Lyon, Marseille and other cities. Protesters set fire to government buildings, including the historic city hall in Limoges.

French President Emmanuel Macron condemned the violence in a televised address Sunday, declaring, “Nothing justifies it, nothing explains it, nothing excuses it. Tonight, we all feel anger and shame.”

Macron pledged to hold rioters accountable while acknowledging protesters’ legitimate concerns about rising living costs and deteriorating public services.

The demonstrations, which drew more than half a million people, began as student-led protests before expanding into a broader anti-government movement.

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