French authorities deploy military forces ahead of new nationwide protests

French authorities are preparing a massive security deployment, including military personnel, ahead of planned nationwide demonstrations over education issues and the rising cost of living. The heightened security posture follows recent protests involving over half a million participants that escalated into widespread violence, leaving one person dead, around 1,000 police officers injured, and approximately 2,000 people arrested.

In an address to the nation, President Emmanuel Macron condemned the unrest while acknowledging the economic grievances of peaceful demonstrators. Stating that "nothing justifies this violence," Macron vowed swift legal action against those responsible for looting and vandalism, insisting that "those who destroyed must pay." Interior Minister Laurent Nunez attributed the escalating clashes to extremist groups and authorized extra security measures to preserve public order.

Sources: Ziarul de Gardă, Newsmaker, Moldova1, Adevărul, HotNews