French President Emmanuel Macron said that recent riots that swept several French cities were organized by far-left groups, which he claimed aim to undermine the institutions of the French Republic.
Following a meeting of the Security and Defense Council at the Élysée Palace, Macron said that part of the attacks and violent acts were planned and posed a serious risk to public order. He announced that authorities would take tougher security measures for upcoming protests.
According to the French president, protests that are not organized by unions or recognized structures could be banned in the coming days. The government is also considering setting up special routes for authorized marches, with the aim of protecting shops, businesses and public property.
Macron said another meeting of the Defense Council will be held to assess the situation and decide additional measures ahead of the protests planned for the weekend.
He stressed that investigations will continue and that those involved in violence will face justice. According to him, thousands of people have been detained by police and hundreds more have been jailed following the clashes that broke out during the protests.
At the same time, the French government will continue dialogue with unions, political parties, student organizations and employer representatives to address social, economic and educational concerns, especially those of young people.
Meanwhile, local authorities in Lyon banned all demonstrations planned for Saturday after the violent incidents of last weekend. Similar decisions have been taken in certain areas of Paris and other cities.
During the unrest, dozens of shops were reportedly looted, buildings set on fire and clashes with police took place in Lyon. The city’s mayor described the situation as several hours of complete chaos.
Protest organizers, including the “Yellow Vests” movement and several unions, have called for new nationwide protests and a general strike in early November.