The key facts
- Maria Zakharova compared the riots in France to a 'reality show of dehumanization'
- The number of detainees has reached 2,513; a curfew has been imposed in certain districts of Paris, Lille, Nice and Lyon
- Ahead of new protests on October 24, authorities will reinforce police; Prime Minister Lecornu has not ruled out a state of emergency
Zakharova's statement
Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said on Sputnik radio that the mass riots in France show how quickly people can lose their human appearance. According to her, a few hours are enough for 'Homo sapiens' to revert to the behavior of distant ancestors. She compared what is happening to a 'reality show of dehumanization' and believes that the events on the French streets have long gone beyond ordinary protest actions.
The diplomat's assessment of the situation
Zakharova drew attention to the fates of people unconnected to the riots: while some smash shops and buildings, others lose the results of years of work. In her view, the destructive consequences also affect the rioters themselves. She compared what is happening to 'invisible barricades' dividing people no longer by political convictions but by their ability to preserve their human appearance, and stressed that this is a deep societal crisis. Zakharova also mentioned the French tradition of street revolutions, which, in her assessment, has taken on destructive forms over the decades.
Chronicle of the protests
Mass demonstrations in France began at the end of September amid schoolchildren's dissatisfaction with learning conditions. Later, students, teachers and other participants joined the actions. The protests were accompanied by clashes with police, detentions and damage to educational institutions, although some demonstrations proceeded peacefully.
Scale of the riots and authorities' measures
According to Life.ru, the number of detainees during the riots has reached 2,513. The riots were accompanied by looting of shops, arson and attacks on government institutions. In Limoges, a bell tower collapsed after a fire in the city hall building. In certain districts of Paris, Lille, Nice and Lyon, authorities imposed a curfew. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has not ruled out introducing a state of emergency, but for now considers local restrictions a more suitable measure. Ahead of new protests on October 24, police will be reinforced in France.
