Macron vows accountability after French cost-of-living protests turn violent

French President Emmanuel Macron has condemned widespread unrest following nationwide demonstrations over rising living costs and education grievances that left one protester dead and nearly 1,000 police officers injured.

More than 500,000 people took to the streets across France on October 17. The rallies escalated into violence, resulting in looting, property destruction, and nearly 1,800 arrests. In a national address on October 18, Macron stated that "nothing justifies this violence," promising legal consequences and stating that those responsible for damage must pay for losses.

Meanwhile, an organizer linked to the Yellow Vests movement defended actions against the state and corporations as "legitimate" and called for a general strike on November 5. French authorities attributed much of the destructive activity to extremist groups.

Sources: Ziarul de Gardă, Moldova1, HotNews, Adevărul, Digi24