18.10.2026 14:50
It was reported that the number of detentions in France exceeded 1,800 after protests turned into looting, arson, and violence. US Vice President JD Vance blamed immigration policies for the incidents and reacted to European governments with the words "We warned you." As tensions rise in the country, President Emmanuel Macron is expected to address the French people this evening.
After the mass protests held in France on October 17, severe damage occurred in many cities across the country. In numerous cities, especially Paris, Lyon, Marseille, and Bordeaux, stores were looted, public buildings were targeted, and clashes broke out between security forces and protesters.
According to the latest information announced by officials, at least 1,800 people were detained nationwide. In Paris and its surroundings, the number of those detained was recorded as 855.
In Limoges, the collapse of the roof after the 19th-century city hall was set on fire was one of the most severe damages during the protests. It was reported that more than 500 police, gendarmerie, and fire service personnel were injured in the incidents, and one protester died of a heart attack.
HARSH REACTION FROM THE US TO FRANCE: WE WARNED YOU
A striking reaction to the events in France also came from the US. US Vice President JD Vance shared footage of Limoges City Hall in flames and criticized European countries' immigration policies.
Vance argued that Western progressives encouraged immigration in the name of diversity and compassion, and claimed that warnings about social cohesion were ignored.
The US Vice President said in his statement: "Western progressives moved the third world to France and other countries in the name of diversity and compassion. They ignored fundamental questions about cohesion and coexistence. They were told this would be the result, but they did not listen."
It was noted that Vance did not present concrete evidence supporting the link he drew between immigration policies and violent incidents.
"THIS MADNESS MUST END BEFORE MORE HISTORICAL BUILDINGS BURN"
Expressing concern over the events in France, Vance said he hoped the country would not suffer more damage.
Vance said, "I pray that France, a beautiful country with wonderful people, ends this madness before more of its historical buildings burn."
Vance, who also targeted Democrats in the US, linked the events in France to American domestic politics and claimed that Democrats want a similar future for his country.
MACRON WILL ADDRESS THE FRENCH PEOPLE TONIGHT
After the events in France, attention turned to President Emmanuel Macron. Macron is scheduled to hold an emergency meeting with senior government officials today, and then address the nation at 20:00 France time, 21:00 Turkey time.
The speech is expected to address the violence during the protests and developments regarding public order. It is not yet known whether Macron will announce a new measure.
MACRON: THOSE WHO RESORT TO VIOLENCE WILL BE PUNISHED
In his first statement after the protests, French President Macron harshly condemned the looting and arson.
Emphasizing that the right to demonstrate must be protected, Macron stated that those who attack public buildings and businesses will be held accountable before the judiciary.
French Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu also expressed support for the security forces and stated that political demands cannot be imposed through violence.