French authorities are preparing for renewed unrest as nationwide protests over the rising cost of living are set to continue, with intelligence officials estimating that up to 500,000 people may participate. Demonstrations are planned across several cities, raising concerns about potential violence, vandalism, and opportunistic looting similar to incidents that occurred last weekend.

Interior Minister Laurent Nunez announced that a substantial security operation will be deployed, including 70,000 police and gendarmes supported by helicopters, armored vehicles, water cannons, and elite units tasked with protecting public buildings such as city halls. Nunez emphasized a stringent approach toward any acts of violence, stating authorities will not tolerate looting or vandalism and will respond with firm arrests and legal action against offenders. He attributed the calls for violence predominantly to far-left groups disseminating messages on social media.

Last week’s demonstrations escalated into chaos in several urban centers, marked by the storming of public buildings, smashed shop windows, and clashes between protesters and law enforcement. Various factions, including students, the trade union CGT, and activists from the yellow vest movement—known for their large-scale protests in 2018 and 2019—are expected to join the ongoing demonstrations.

While protest marches have been prohibited in some cities such as Lyon, Nice, and Montpellier, major rallies remain scheduled in Paris and Marseille. Authorities in Orleans are particularly concerned due to a planned protest coinciding with a two-day conference held by Marine Le Pen’s National Rally party. The far-right event is anticipated to attract around 5,000 supporters on the first day and 10,000 on the second, when Le Pen is expected to announce her presidential campaign. Counter-demonstrations by groups including the CGT, left-wing parties, students, and anti-racism activists are expected to draw as many as 40,000 participants to Orleans.

Separately, a violent incident in the Paris suburbs has heightened tensions. A man identified locally as Kevin T., 39, allegedly went on a shooting rampage early Monday morning, using a World War II-era machine gun while driving through the Trappes and La Verriere areas. Police are investigating the attack as a suspected terrorist act. The gunfire resulted in one fatality—a 26-year-old man of African descent—and serious injuries to a 12-year-old girl who was shot eight times. Three additional people were also wounded during the incident. Authorities continue to investigate the motive behind the shooting, which has been described in local reports as racially motivated.