France’s Far Right Seizes the Moment as Rioting Shocks the Country

Rioting and looting erupted during nationwide demonstrations over rising living costs and poor school conditions, leaving businesses damaged and historic buildings ablaze. President Emmanuel Macron blamed much of the violence on radical far-left activists, while the government faced criticism over its handling of the unrest. Far-right leader Marine Le Pen used the crisis to attack Macron’s administration, portraying it as exhausted and disoriented. With a presidential election approaching, political rivals are competing to shape public reaction, even as officials consider measures to restore order and protect communities.