Macron urges calm after riots follow nationwide protests in France

French President Emmanuel Macron has appealed for calm and order following a wave of protests on Saturday that descended into rioting and looting, with some unrest continuing in Paris on Sunday.

Speaking in a national address from the Élysée Palace, Macron urged those involved not to escalate the situation, acknowledging widespread public anger and shame over the events.

Around 550,000 people took part in demonstrations across France, which were largely peaceful and focused on anger over rising fuel prices, the cost of living, and declining public services such as schools.

Macron stressed the need to separate the legitimate grievances of protesters from the actions of those who engaged in destruction, vandalism and theft.

According to France's interior ministry, police have detained approximately 2,400 people in connection with the unrest.

The president said there was no justification for the extreme violence witnessed during the riots and vowed that those responsible would be held accountable through the justice system.

Groups of rioters, some dressed in black and wearing masks or balaclavas, were seen in Paris, Marseille and other French cities, with reports of cars and buildings being set on fire.