France faces new weekend of protests as security forces deploy nationwide

Protests took place across France on Saturday as authorities deployed around 70,000 police officers and security forces nationwide. The demonstrations, which occurred despite bans on several planned marches in major cities, were called to protest the cost of living. Clashes broke out in Paris and other French cities including Lyon, where police used tear gas to disperse demonstrators.

The security measures followed large-scale protests the previous weekend that had resulted in street violence and looting. Ahead of Saturday's demonstrations, shop owners in Paris boarded up windows and took measures to secure their businesses against potential renewed unrest. Some business owners purchased weapons in response to concerns about violence, according to reports.

Authorities imposed restrictions on gatherings and extended curfews in cities across France in an effort to prevent further disorder. Several planned marches were banned by authorities, drawing criticism from rights groups. Police and elite security forces were positioned throughout French cities as the protests unfolded.

Tensions escalated toward the end of the day's demonstrations in several cities. The situation in Paris became particularly tense, though the full extent of clashes remained unclear from available reports. Tear gas deployment was confirmed in at least Lyon.

The protests reflected ongoing political tensions related to rising living costs. Reactions to the demonstrations were mixed, with some supporting the protests while others condemned the associated looting and vandalism that had accompanied previous demonstrations.

Separate security deployments also occurred in Italy, where hundreds of soldiers were sent to Milan ahead of anticipated unrest. Protests in Italian cities encompassed a broad range of issues including education, corruption, anti-war movements, pensions and housing.