Violent clashes in Paris and Lyon as cost-of-living protests escalate

Nationwide protests in France have escalated, marked by significant violence, thousands of arrests, and severe injuries, including a reported arm amputation. The movement is characterized by a convergence of disparate groups, including students, farmers, taxi drivers, and Yellow Vests, protesting rising living costs, inequality, and public service deterioration. The government faces a critical test as the scale and organization of this broad coalition remain uncertain, with potential for sustained mass movement.