Protesters across over 200 towns in France demonstrated against spending cuts and demanded higher taxes on the wealthy. In Paris, thousands marched from Place d'Italie, with the Eiffel Tower closed due to the strike. The protests, organized by major unions, are a response to proposed budget measures that threaten social welfare and purchasing power. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has yet to reveal his budget plans. The previous government led by François Bayrou collapsed after losing a confidence vote, prompting public anger. Despite lower turnout than previous protests, significant disruptions were reported in transportation. Teljes cikk (Euronews.com)