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France deploys military alongside police ahead of weekend protests

French authorities are implementing heightened security measures for Saturday demonstrations, with military personnel joining police forces. The deployment follows violent incidents and looting that occurred in the country last week.

LSN India · 21 October 2026

France deploys military alongside police ahead of weekend protests

France is preparing for significant security operations as fresh protests are scheduled for Saturday, with authorities mobilizing both police and military personnel to maintain order. The expanded security presence follows a week marked by violent clashes and widespread looting across the country.

Prime Minister Sebastian Lecornu stated that the government's immediate priority is to restore normalcy and prevent further incidents of violence and theft. Security agencies have been instructed to implement comprehensive measures to ensure public safety during the demonstrations.

The decision to deploy military units alongside standard police forces underscores the scale of the security operation, which represents an intensified response compared to previous protest responses. Authorities have indicated that all resources will be directed toward preventing a repeat of last week's disturbances.

The announcement comes as France grapples with ongoing civil unrest, with government officials signaling their commitment to maintaining order while allowing citizens to exercise their right to public assembly. The coordinated police and military approach aims to balance these considerations amid heightened tensions.