French PM Vows 'Massive' Police Deployment for Upcoming Protests Amid Criticism

French Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu on Tuesday vowed a "massive" police presence at fresh protests called for the coming weekend, as he faced criticism over the handling of recent street violence. The eurozone's second-largest economy was rocked on Saturday by some of its worst rioting in recent years, just six months before voters head to the polls to elect a successor to President Emmanuel Macron. FRANCE 24's Ellen Gainsford reports. The announcement comes as the government seeks to reassure the public and maintain order after a weekend of unrest that saw widespread looting and clashes. Lecornu's promise of a heavy police presence is seen as a bid to prevent a repeat of the chaos, but it also raises questions about the balance between security and civil liberties. With the election looming, the handling of these protests could have significant political ramifications. Ellen Gainsford provides a detailed report on the government's strategy and the mood in the country.