Addressing the nation on October 18, 2026, French President Emmanuel Macron denounced the violence that marred protests against the rising cost of living and fuel prices. He asserted that such unrest was unjustifiable.
Isang Pagkakaiba sa Pagitan ng Protesta at Karahasan
Ngayon gabi, lahat tayo ay nakakaramdam ng galit at kahihiyan.
Emmanuel Macron, Pangulo ng Pransya
In his televised address, Macron emphasized the need to differentiate between peaceful protesters advocating for legitimate grievances and those who engaged in looting and destruction. He stated, "Those who have destroyed must pay," indicating a firm stance against the rioters.
Macron characterized the recent violence as "unprecedented" and vowed that the government would be "uncompromising" in its approach to those who participated in the riots.
- Halos 2,400 na aresto ang ginawa sa panahon ng mga protesta.
- Tinatayang 1,000 pulis ang nasugatan, kung saan pito ang nagtamo ng malubhang pinsala.
The President also promised that government officials would collaborate with local mayors to ensure the protection of cities, public infrastructure, and businesses. He expressed his distress over the sight of vandalism in French cities, calling it "unbearable."
In response to criticism regarding police preparedness, Macron committed to full transparency concerning security operations during the protests. He instructed Interior Minister Laurent Nunez to review the situation and improve intelligence gathering and response strategies.