Emmanuel Macron says cost-of-living unrest unjustified: "those who destroyed, smashed, and looted"

Addressing the nation on Sunday after weekend protests over living costs turned destructive, French President Emmanuel Macron distinguished peaceful demonstrators from people who committed arson, theft and vandalism, saying the disorder was unjustified. The interior ministry reported about 2,400 arrests on Saturday and nearly 1,000 officers injured, seven seriously; town halls and shops were burned or damaged, and clashes resumed in Paris on Sunday. Macron promised a firm response to violent groups, aid for affected businesses, coordination with mayors to protect public buildings and stores, and a review of security preparations with Interior Minister Laurent Nunez. Local authorities could ban some gatherings, but he avoided emergency measures. The unrest has drawn opposition criticism and comes months before a presidential election Macron cannot contest.