Paris Riots: Gendarme Describes Molotov Cocktail Attack

Three weeks of continuous unrest have gripped France, with riots spreading across the country for a third consecutive weekend. The violence occurred alongside larger, peaceful demonstrations centered on the rising cost of living. In Paris, a specific incident drew national attention when a gendarme was struck by a Molotov cocktail.

Video footage from between the Porte de Bagnolet and Port de Charenton Metro stations shows officers in black riot gear holding shields. A thrown bottle lands at one officer's feet, sending flames up his body. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez characterized the attack as an attempted murder during a press conference on Saturday evening.

The injured officer, who spoke anonymously to RTL, described the physical experience in detail. He stated that the burning sensation was immediate and intense, growing worse over time because the fire was long-lasting and difficult to stop. He explained that he had time to feel the equipment being affected before his own flesh began to sting.

The officer noted that the flammable substance was greasy, creating a feeling of it spreading across his skin. He said he found himself wondering when the spread would finally stop. Despite the severity of the attack, he reported that he did not sustain serious injuries that would prevent him from returning to duty.

The current wave of protests began with student demands for better classroom conditions before expanding into broader anger over everyday expenses. Unrest has since crossed borders, reaching Italy, Belgium, and Albania. In Germany, the youth campaign group Gen Z Regelt, which translates to Gen Z Reigns, held peaceful demonstrations that turned violent in several cities.

In Frankfurt, police closed off the main shopping street amid clashes. The Polizei Hessen force reported incidents of property damage, thefts, and serious physical attacks on officers. They issued an appeal for photos and videos of the violence. The Cologne march for the group was cancelled after participants wore masks and set off fireworks, though a stationary rally was permitted.

Boris Rhein, the state premier of Hesse, commented on the events in Frankfurt. He stated that anyone behaving like the attackers places themselves outside of society. He added that the state would carefully assess the aggressors, perpetrator groups, and the course of events to draw conclusions. The movement calls for more school funding, mental healthcare, action on the cost of living, and opposition to compulsory military service.