French Protests Escalate Over Living Costs

French cities experienced violent clashes and the use of tear gas as protests against rising living costs intensified. The unrest, which has drawn thousands onto the streets, has seen significant confrontations between protesters and law enforcement.

Authorities reported 140 protests involving 32,800 participants outside Paris by midday, attributing the unrest to the 'ultra-left.' The demonstrations have been marked by violent incidents, including vandalism and attacks on police, media, and public buildings.

The protests originated last month at high schools in Paris’s northern suburbs, where dissatisfaction over teacher shortages and poor facilities led to a broader movement focused on inequality, public spending, and living standards.