Macron Slams Foreign Leaders Over France Unrest
French President Emmanuel Macron has criticised foreign leaders for using unrest in France to advance their domestic political agendas, describing their comments as “unacceptable” and “stupid”. Speaking during a visit to Qatar on Wednesday, Macron was asked whether his criticism included US President Donald Trump. He answered that Trump was among those he meant, making clear that his remarks extended beyond one leader. Macron also accused some political figures of circulating misleading accounts of the violence, including AI-generated images depicting scenes that had not occurred. He rejected claims that France was being overrun by migrants and Islamist groups.
Trump Blames Immigration For France Violence
Trump linked the unrest to immigration and criticised the policies associated with Macron’s government. He also used the violence to warn American voters about his political opponents ahead of the US midterm elections. Macron disputed that framing, arguing that foreign leaders were exploiting France’s difficulties for electoral advantage. Their exchange added a diplomatic dispute to the French government’s efforts to restore order and respond to protesters’ concerns. The demonstrations described in the supplied article centred on rising living costs, strained public services and education concerns. Some subsequently escalated into looting, arson and clashes with police in Paris, Marseille and Lyon.
France Prepares For Fresh Protests
French authorities said more than 2,500 people had been taken into custody following the violence, with hundreds of suspects referred for prosecution. Targeted overnight curfews and restrictions on gatherings were introduced in affected areas. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu said the measures had helped restore calm while acknowledging shortcomings in the security response. Authorities promised stronger security arrangements ahead of demonstrations planned for Thursday and Saturday. Student union UNEF called for further rallies, while groups associated with the Yellow Vest movement planned protests over fuel costs. Labour unions were separately preparing a nationwide strike on November 5 over living costs and reductions in public services.
Indian Embassy Urges Caution In France
The Indian Embassy in Paris issued an advisory urging Indian residents and travellers to remain vigilant amid demonstrations, clashes and localised curfews. The embassy asked Indian nationals to avoid large gatherings and locations where protests were taking place, exercise caution and follow instructions from French authorities. As France prepares for further demonstrations, the government faces pressure to maintain public safety while protecting the right to peaceful protest and addressing the economic concerns driving the mobilisation.
