France hit by nationwide strikes and protests over high prices, low wages

Nationwide strikes and large protests took place across France on Thursday against rising prices, low wages and cuts in public service spending. According to France's Interior Ministry, more than 270,000 people took part in protests at about 200 locations outside Paris alone.

Clashes broke out between police and protesters in the cities of Lyon and Nantes. In Lyon, police fired tear gas and a car was reportedly set on fire.

The strike disrupted public services including transport, education and health care. About 40 percent of scheduled train services were cancelled, and the Eiffel Tower, a major tourist attraction, was also closed.

The strike was organized by the joint front of major trade unions, L'Intersyndicale, demanding an immediate increase in the minimum wage and improved pension benefits. The largest labor organization, the CGT, demanded an immediate 10 percent rise in the minimum wage, while another major union, the CFDT, demanded an increase of about 100 euros to the monthly minimum wage.

Unions expressed dissatisfaction with the government's wage increase implemented from November 1, saying it adds only about 15 euros to monthly income.

The Yellow Vest movement, which began in 2018, also joined the protests, demanding the resignation of President Emmanuel Macron and his government.