Macron: Those seeking to overthrow the Republic must answer

French President Emmanuel Macron addressed the public in a televised statement following mass protests by the Yellow Vests movement, which has spread across the country. He strongly condemned the riots and acts of violence in Paris and other major cities, as well as damage to civilian infrastructure.

“Operative Information Center-OMM” reports that Macron stressed France urgently needs discipline, public order and calm. He called on all political parties, parliamentary forces and trade unions to unequivocally condemn radical violence and looting.

The French leader said the government would provide financial and compensation support in the near term to small and medium-sized businesses and commercial premises affected by the unrest. He also said he had issued specific instructions to relevant agencies to draw prompt conclusions from shortcomings identified in the work of security and intelligence services and to strengthen oversight.

The president stressed that firm legal action would be taken against those who broke the law:

“Those who loot public property and ransack shops must pay for all the damage caused, down to the last cent. Radical elements who seek to undermine the constitutional order of the French Republic and overthrow state institutions will answer before the law,” Macron said.