French President Emmanuel Macron condemned the violence that erupted on the sidelines of nationwide protests, in a televised address on Sunday, 18 October 2026. He blamed far-left groups and criminals for the looting and attacks on shops and town halls, which left several hundred police officers and gendarmes injured. Macron said those responsible “must pay” and would be held accountable, while stressing that peaceful protesters with legitimate concerns over living costs must not be confused with rioters.