France Rocked by Widespread Unrest, Curfews Imposed
Violent clashes lead to criminal charges for 80% of those arrested as government blames 'ultra-left' elements.
Sarah Connor
Up to 800,000 demonstrators have been involved in nationwide unrest across France.
Denain implemented a night-time curfew. Marseille banned public gatherings. Businesses impacted by the protests will access furlough measures starting Tuesday.
Eighty percent of those arrested during the weekend rioting now face criminal charges. An operation involving around 200 investigators begins in Paris, tasked with analyzing footage from the weekend's events.
Sébastien Lecornu attributed the violent clashes to criminal elements and the ultra-left. He blamed these groups for their part in the unrest, citing far-left groups for inciting disorder ahead of the presidential election.
immigrants with hatred in their hearts' had made the country ungovernable.
Peaceful protests over the cost of living, education standards, and Emmanuel Macron's leadership were hijacked. Balaclava-clad thugs unleashed horrific violence across France. Protests had occurred last month over school conditions, broadening to represent other concerns.
Amidst the chaos, diners enjoyed drinks at a Parisian cafe while fires burned in the background during riots. President Emmanuel Macron traveled to Kuwait during the protests.
The rioting and looting spread beyond France. Reports indicate similar unrest in Milan, Italy. Donald Trump claimed that 'immigrants with hatred in their hearts' had made the country ungovernable.'