France saw a sudden escalation of protests on Friday, driven by anger over rising prices and economic disruption, according to international media reports. Demonstrations that had been building in recent weeks erupted into widespread violence in several areas.
Authorities said thousands of buildings and business establishments were set on fire during the unrest. In Paris alone, more than one million people were reported to have taken part in the protests.
Police carried out mass detentions, with more than 1,800 people arrested. In Limoges, a 143-year-old city hall building was set ablaze, and the local tourism office was destroyed.
More than 500 police personnel were reported injured and are receiving treatment. Interior Minister Laurent Lunes condemned the violence, saying it could not be justified.
President Emmanuel Macron said troublemakers had infiltrated peaceful protests to create chaos, warning that they would be identified and arrested. Arrangements were also being made for him to address the nation on television.
