The key facts
- Damage from the riots is estimated at 'tens or possibly hundreds of millions' of euros — Economy Minister Roland Lescour.
- On October 17, about 550,000 people took part in actions across France, with more than 2,000 detained.
- New demonstrations in Paris have been announced for next Saturday, including a 'yellow vests' action and a gathering at Place de la Bastille.
Damage assessment and government response
French Economy Minister Roland Lescour, speaking on RTL radio on Wednesday, estimated the damage from the violence and riots that occurred last weekend at 'tens or possibly hundreds of millions' of euros. He described the events as 'extremely serious' and said France had been attacked 'from within' by 'two violent movements: anarchists and hooligans.' According to him, the government is working with insurance companies to support merchants affected by the damage and has pledged to take all necessary measures to prevent a recurrence. 'We will do everything possible to ensure this does not happen again,' Lescour said, speaking about new demonstrations planned for Saturday.
New actions announced for Saturday
The 'yellow vests' movement announced plans to hold a demonstration in Paris on Saturday: coordinator Benjamin Bal said the official notification had been submitted to the Paris police prefecture, BFMTV reports. According to him, the Paris branch of the General Confederation of Labour and a student union have also announced plans to gather at Place de la Bastille.
Background: the October 17 protests
The planned demonstration will take place a week after an action against the rising cost of living in Paris escalated into clashes — violence and property damage were reported. According to available data, about 550,000 people took to the streets across France on October 17; clashes broke out between protesters and police, cars were burned, several stores were looted, and more than 2,000 people were detained.
