French security forces have arrested dozens of protesters as a new grassroots movement, dubbed "Block Everything," launched a series of nationwide demonstrations that snarled traffic and triggered a massive police response. The coordinated actions, which began early on Wednesday, have been met with a show of force, with officials deploying 80,000 security personnel across the country.
The "Block Everything" movement, which gained traction on social media over the summer, has drawn comparisons to the "Yellow Vest" protests of 2018. While the "Yellow Vests" initially rallied against fuel tax hikes, this new movement is described by analysts as a broad, multi-factional outcry against the political system itself, with both left- and right-wing groups participating.
Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau confirmed the arrests and disruptions, stating that around 50 "hooded people" attempted a blockade in Bordeaux. In Toulouse, a quick-acting cable fire still managed to disrupt traffic. Paris police reported 75 arrests in the capital, though specific details were not provided.
