Macron denounces rioting, calls for accountability after looting and mass arrests

French President Emmanuel Macron said that anyone who broke into government buildings must answer for their crimes. He made the remarks after a series of violent demonstrations that led to the detention of hundreds of people across France. Protesters had taken to the streets to voice anger over the soaring cost of living and what they described as substandard conditions in schools. The comments were issued on 18 October 2026.