Protests continue in France as thousands take to the streets

Large-scale protests have erupted across various cities in France as demonstrators rally against the cost of living and poor conditions in schools. Authorities deployed 70,000 police officers to control the crowds, with clashes reported in Paris, Marseille, and Bordeaux. While the French Interior Ministry estimates 410,000 participants, labor unions claim the number is closer to 800,000. Hundreds have been arrested as police work to prevent the looting and destruction witnessed in previous weeks. Officials noted that extremist elements have been identified among the protesters, and courts are expediting cases related to property damage and violence.