Riots Damage 3,000 Shops in France; Mayors Demand Protection

The French Retail Federation reported that approximately 3,000 stores suffered damage over the weekend amid riots and demonstrations across France. The agency cited figures indicating widespread commercial impact during the unrest.

Macron Rejects Interior Minister Resignation

President Emmanuel Macron declined to accept the resignation of Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez. He instructed Nuñez to put an end to barricades and looting activities currently disrupting public order.

Macron also demanded transparency regarding what he described as intelligence and foresight failures within the security apparatus. These directives came as authorities sought to address the escalating violence.

Mayors Criticize Security Gaps

In a joint article, the mayors of Paris, Marseille, and Lyon stated that entire sections of their cities had been left unprotected. All three municipal leaders belong to the center-left political spectrum.

Their collective statement highlighted concerns about the absence of adequate police presence in affected urban areas during the disturbances.

Unions Call for National Strike

Labor unions have announced plans for a national strike scheduled for November 5. This action aims to respond to the current social and security tensions gripping the country.