French President Macron's Statement on Protests

French President Emmanuel Macron addressed the nation from the Elysee Palace in the capital, Paris, last night following the yellow vest protests. Macron stated that the country needs order and calm, saying, “On Saturday, October 17, far-left marginal groups, along with numerous criminals who contributed to them, led to uncontrolled violence in our cities. Many shops were looted, and attacks were carried out on stores, public buildings, and municipal buildings. I call on political parties and labor unions to unequivocally condemn the acts of violence that occurred during the protests. Everyone feels anger and shame over what happened during the demonstrations. Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu will hold a crisis meeting to assist shopkeepers as quickly as possible. I have instructed the government to draw all necessary lessons regarding intelligence and ensure this does not happen again,” he said.

Macron also noted that Justice Minister Gerald Darmanin has instructed prosecutors, saying, “Those who destroy must pay the cost. Those who loot must compensate for the damage. Those who try to overthrow the Republic must be held accountable.”