French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday blamed far-left groups for violent riots that swept the country, resulting in at least 1,800 arrests, the looting of hundreds of businesses, and the torching of public buildings.
In a televised address to the nation, Macron expressed "rage" and "shame" over the events, accusing "unbridled violence" by radical left-wing organizations joined by large numbers of criminals.
"Those who looted will have to pay for the damage, and those who sought to bring down the Republic will be required to answer for it," the president declared.
The protests erupted over the rising cost of living and deteriorating school conditions, drawing some 550,000 participants according to authorities, while organizers estimated the turnout at 800,000. Labor unions, student groups and activists seeking to revive the 2018 "Yellow Vest" movement called for the demonstrations.
Severe clashes with police developed in major cities including Paris, Marseille and Lyon. Protesters set vehicles ablaze, smashed windows and ransacked stores. In the city of Limoges, rioters torched the historic town hall, causing its roof to collapse, while in Paris police deployed tear gas and water cannons to disperse the rioters.
