France protests over fuel and living costs turn violent in Paris, Marseille, Lyon
The gist
Nationwide French protests over fuel prices and living costs brought at least 272 arrests, with violence in Paris.
The rallies merge student grievances with a revived Yellow Vest call months before elections to pick Macron's successor.
How it unfolded
- Sep 17, 2026A student protest movement begins in France, with pupils at hundreds of schools, particularly in working-class suburbs such as Saint-Denis outside Paris, blocking entrances, taking over roads, setting trash cans on fire and attacking police and passersby.
- Oct 14, 2026Clashes between students and police spread across France, with tens of thousands of students taking part.
- Oct 16, 2026President Emmanuel Macron appeals for calm and respect for people and property as officials warn of possible violence.