France deploys heavy security, keeps curfews as weekend protests loom

France is maintaining targeted nighttime curfews in Paris and other cities and preparing a large-scale security deployment ahead of expected weekend demonstrations. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez outlined measures to free up police and gendarmes amid concerns over unrest.

France plans a major security operation for demonstrations expected this weekend, with some Operation Sentinelle military forces freeing up police and gendarmes for protest duty. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez outlined the measures amid fears of a repeat of violent unrest.

The disturbances began amid protests over living costs, fuel prices and conditions in public education, before some demonstrations escalated into clashes with police, vandalism and looting. Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu has said curfews may be imposed where necessary, and authorities are maintaining targeted nighttime curfews in parts of Paris and other major cities.

The crisis is becoming a significant political challenge for President Emmanuel Macron as France approaches its next presidential election. Authorities have stressed that peaceful demonstrations remain lawful, while warning that attacks on public buildings, businesses and emergency personnel will face prosecution.