Chaos, loot and fire as France burns amidst widespread unrest
At least 2,400 people were arrested, according news agency AP.
“Those who looted will have to pay for the damage, and those who sought to bring down the Republic will be held accountable,” Macron said. Macron said he had instructed prefects to work with mayors to protect public buildings and businesses, including by banning protests where necessary. Haute-Vienne prefect Maurice Barate said “radical troublemakers” had broken in while officials, employees, security personnel and members of the public were inside. It is an extremely serious and unspeakable act,” Barate said. US president Donald Trump posted “France is burning!” on Truth Social, blaming immigration fro the protets and called on the country to “Close your Borders and take control, before it is too late!
France witnessed widespread destruction, looting and clashes with police as nationwide protests over the rising cost of living and poor conditions in schools escalated into violence, leaving businesses damaged and public buildings in flames. President Emmanuel Macron has vowed legal action against rioters while announcing measures to address public grievances. “They deliberately set the building on fire. The unrest has also fuelled political tensions ahead of next spring’s presidential election. Far-right leader Marine Le Pen criticised Macron’s government, while left-wing leader Jean-Luc Mélenchon condemned looting and destruction. French authorities have not linked immigrants to the rioting.
In Limoges, flames engulfed the 19th-century City Hall on Saturday, causing its roof to collapse and nearly destroying the building.