Violent clashes and looting reported during massive protests in France and Germany

Widespread protests against rising inflation in France on Saturday saw less violence compared to the previous two weekends, bringing a sense of relief to authorities, while however, further demonstrations are anticipated following the reopening of schools today. Meanwhile, in Germany, violence erupted in several cities following nationwide protests on Saturday, with rioters attacking police and looting shops, while millions of people participated in youth-inspired protests across various European nations on Saturday. While incidents of violence occurred at a few locations, the majority of demonstrations remained peaceful.

Police reported that after a march concluded in the eastern part of Paris on Saturday, rioters hurled petrol bombs at police officers, injuring three officials and setting a car on fire. Groups of masked individuals threw firecrackers at police officers at a scenic spot in front of the Eiffel Tower in the city. Police took action to disperse the crowd of protesters. However, the violence was lower this time compared to the protests held on October 17 and October 24. During the October 17 protest, a municipal building was set on fire and over 2,000 shops were looted.

Police in Paris and Marseille stated that some shops were targeted, but no major damage was reported. In Germany, more than one hundred thousand people staged peaceful protests on Saturday, the majority of whom were youths. Protesters demanded that the government spend more money on education, housing, and climate protection, and make everyday life more affordable. However, protests turned violent during the night in some cities. Following a protest in Frankfurt, rioters attacked police in the city center and looted shops. Several protesters and police officers were injured during this time, and 30 people were detained. Police cordoned off an area in the city center, after which the situation remained calm until early Sunday morning.

Frankfurt is located in the state of Hesse. Hesse Governor Boris Rhein said, I am shocked by the violent events in Frankfurt. Those responsible for this won't be spared. Violence also flared up on Saturday night in Cologne, where police used water cannons to disperse the crowd. In Berlin, protesters attacked police with bottles and fireworks-related materials.

The youth organization Gen Z Regelt, which organized Saturday protests, stated in a statement released on Instagram that it has no connection whatsoever with any kind of violence or the violent activities of other groups and individuals who weren't involved in the protests, while following protests demanding affordable housing in the Portuguese capital of Lisbon, anti-riot police forcefully removed protesters gathered in a square at night.