Peskov calls unrest in Europe a sign of deep crisis

Mass unrest and social discontent in several leading European countries are nearing uncontrollable chaos and are a clear manifestation of a deep systemic crisis, Russian presidential press secretary Dmitry Peskov said.

Operative Information Center-OMM reports that, answering a question about the nature of the widespread unrest in Europe, Peskov said the continent was facing a serious challenge:

“Although it is difficult to say to what extent these developments are fully systemic, it is already an undeniable reality that Europe is experiencing a major and deep crisis. Riots in major cities of a leading country such as France are nearing chaos, and the spread of this wave to Italy and other European countries shows that the situation has reached a dangerous point,” the Kremlin official said.

Mass protests in France have taken place amid a sharp rise in the cost of living, high inflation and deep discontent with the social and economic policies of the government in Paris. According to official figures from France’s Interior Ministry, nearly 550,000 people took part in demonstrations across the country. Trade unions say more than 800,000 protesters took to the streets.

Violent clashes between security forces and demonstrators, looting of shops and widespread arson have been reported in Paris, Lyon, Marseille and other major cities. As unrest escalated, French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez submitted his resignation, but President Emmanuel Macron refused to accept it. In a video address to the public, Macron said the concerns of society and protesters should be heard.

The wave of social discontent that began in France has triggered a chain reaction, spreading to Italy and Albania. Large-scale protests are taking place in both countries against rising living costs, a sharp increase in fuel prices and a heavier tax burden.