Large-scale protests in France turn chaotic with widespread damage and looting

French activists sought to create a unified front on issues such as rising living costs and education conditions by urging a massive rally. The movement quickly splintered, with numerous small groups following instructions shared on social media. Police blocked gatherings at key locations, especially train stations, and declared the city centre off-limits for protests.

Despite these restrictions, participants—including former yellow-vest supporters, high-school demonstrators, professional bodies, left-wing politicians and unions—converged, resulting in unprecedented property damage, violence and looting. The unrest highlighted tensions between grassroots calls for change and authorities' attempts to contain the demonstrations.