France will deploy troops alongside police and mount a “massive” security operation ahead of more protests planned for Saturday, Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu said on Tuesday. It follows rioting and looting across Paris, Marseille, Lyon and other cities on October 17.
Lecornu acknowledged intelligence failures and police deployments that were too static. He also said the government was wrong not to cancel planned police leave. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez apologised and said he accepts his “share of responsibility.” Targeted curfews have been extended after a calmer night, with some aimed at under-18s. Parliament is setting up a commission of inquiry, and 200 investigators have been assigned to track down those involved.
Lecornu blamed far-left groups. His critics say the government underestimated public anger over living costs and declining public services. Student union UNEF and groups calling themselves Gilets Jaunes have called for further action. French 10-year bond yields reportedly hit their highest level in 24 years. Unrest has also hit Milan and Tirana, and Italy’s defence minister called it “hybrid warfare” carried out through social media.
Source: Reuters
So What
Admitting failure is one thing. Fixing it in five days is another. Troops on the streets may deter looting, but it is unclear whether the intelligence gaps behind last weekend have been closed. If nothing changes, Saturday will likely go the same way. This is highly likely the biggest test yet for the Lecornu government. Another failure would likely push support for Marine Le Pen’s National Rally higher ahead of next year’s presidential election. Italy’s claim that the unrest was coordinated online is possible, but unproven so far.
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