France Protests: Police Clash with Masked Rioters as Cost of Living Anger Spreads to Germany

Tens of thousands of demonstrators, some in Halloween costumes, marched across France on Saturday in a third wave of protests over rising living costs and deteriorating public services. The interior ministry said about 320,000 people took part nationwide, down from 410,000 last weekend, including 70,000 in Paris who marched on the city's southeastern outskirts. Clashes erupted in Paris, Marseille and other cities after largely peaceful daytime rallies, with police confronting masked rioters as evening fell. The unrest reflects mounting frustration over inflation and perceived neglect of public services. Similar demonstrations in Germany saw officers fire teargas to disperse crowds. The protests signal growing social pressure on European governments as households grapple with soaring energy and food prices. The situation remains tense, with further action likely if economic conditions do not improve.