Key facts
- Thousands were arrested and shops were looted during protests in France.
- A town hall was torched during violent clashes with police.
- Several European countries issued fresh travel warnings for France.
European governments on Monday issued travel warnings for France, advising citizens to avoid large crowds and exercise caution due to deteriorating security conditions following weekend riots. Demonstrations across France over high prices and declining public services escalated into riots on Saturday, with a town hall torched and violent groups clashing with police. In response, foreign ministries of several European countries issued fresh travel advisories. Italy advised its citizens to register their presence in France and avoid large crowds. Germany warned that further riots couldn't be ruled out and urged nationals to follow police instructions, noting potential fines for failing to leave unauthorized demonstrations. The Czech Republic advised its citizens to avoid demonstrations, marches, and public gatherings, stating the security situation had deteriorated. Poland advised visitors to avoid demonstration sites, while the Netherlands warned travelers to avoid protests. Nordic countries Denmark, Sweden, Finland, and Norway also issued advisories urging their citizens to avoid demonstrations and follow local authorities' guidance.