Macron vows tougher security after nationwide riots in France

Summary

French President Emmanuel Macron denounced nationwide rioting and looting and promised to increase security, but did not announce a state of emergency or curfew, Al Jazeera reports. The Sydney Morning Herald says he delivered a televised address after widespread, violent protests over the cost of living and education, while The Straits Times reports he vowed an uncompromising stance toward rioters amid new clashes. Before the address, POLITICO reported that Donald Trump described France as burning and footage showed looting, burned-out cars and smashed store windows. This follows reports of more than 1,800 arrests after riots, looting and arson, and the destruction of Limoges’ historic town hall.

Timeline

1. POLITICO

   18 Oct 2026, 15:05 UTCSource ↗

   POLITICO reported that Macron would address France after Trump described the country as burning, and that footage showed widespread looting, burned-out cars and smashed store windows.

2. The Sydney Morning Herald

   18 Oct 2026, 18:13 UTCSource ↗

   The Sydney Morning Herald reports that Macron delivered a televised address after widespread, violent nationwide protests over the cost of living and education.

3. The Straits Times

   18 Oct 2026, 18:46 UTCSource ↗

   The Straits Times reports that Macron denounced the violence amid new clashes and vowed an uncompromising stance toward rioters.

4. Al Jazeera

   18 Oct 2026, 20:19 UTCSource ↗

   Al Jazeera reports that Macron denounced nationwide rioting and looting and promised to increase security, but did not announce a state of emergency or curfew.