Teachers, train drivers, pharmacists, and hospital staff across France went on strike under the slogan “Bloquons tout” (Let’s stop everything) to protest planned budget cuts. Students also joined demonstrations, with banners against austerity displayed outside schools in Paris.
Unions demand scrapping former Prime Minister François Bayrou’s €44 billion austerity plan, higher taxes on the wealthy, and greater investment in public services. The strike disrupted regional trains, blocked highways, and closed most pharmacies.
Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau said 80,000 security forces were deployed nationwide, with riot police, drones, and armored vehicles on standby. More than 20 people have been detained so far.
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