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French President Emmanuel Macron has condemned the violence recorded during nationwide cost-of-living protests, saying nothing justified the unrest.
Speaking in a televised address on Sunday, he warned that those responsible for the destruction would face consequences, pledging that the government would be “uncompromising” towards those who had rioted.
“Tonight, we all feel anger and shame,” Macron said, stressing that demonstrators with genuine concerns should not be equated with those who destroyed property and looted businesses.
Macron described the violence as unprecedented and said nothing could justify or excuse the level of unrest witnessed across the country.
He also directed senior officials to work with mayors to strengthen the protection of cities, public buildings and businesses.
Macron said the damage inflicted on businesses and public spaces was unacceptable and pledged government support for affected businesses.
“Seeing the streets of our cities ransacked in this way is unbearable,” he said.
The president also promised full transparency over the actions of security forces during the protests following criticism that police preparations had been inadequate.
He said he had instructed Interior Minister Laurent Nunez to review the security response, particularly intelligence gathering and preparations ahead of the demonstrations, and provide clear answers on what went wrong.
Nearly 2,400 people were arrested across France on Saturday, while almost 1,000 police officers and gendarmes were injured, including seven who sustained serious injuries, according to the Interior Ministry.
