A relieved Strasbourg prepared to reopen its popular Christmas market on Friday after <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/strasbourg-christmas-market-attacker-killed-after-gun-battle-183878">French police shot dead the gunman </a>who killed three people there in an attack claimed by the Islamic State group.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/france-hunts-gunman-who-cried-allahu-akbar-in-christmas-market-attack-183530">Cherif Chekatt </a>was killed late Thursday after a two-day manhunt when a police patrol spotted him on a street in the district where he was last seen after Tuesday night's attack on Christmas shoppers.

The lights on the market's towering Christmas tree were illuminated Friday for the first time since the attack ahead of the official re-opening of the market at 11:00 am (1000 GMT).

"I hope life will get back to normal but I'm not too sure," said Franck Hoffmann as opened his wooden chalet offering Christmas candles and ornaments on Friday.

"Business isn't going to be what it was," he predicted.

Questions remained over how Chekatt was able to evade the tight security perimeter set up for an event long known to be a prime target for jihadist groups.

Around 500 police, security agents and soldiers control access at checkpoints on the bridges leading to the river island, a UN World Heritage site, that houses the market.

The goal is to "create a bubble with searches at the entry points," Mayor Roland Ries said after the attack, while regional government representative Jean-Luc Marx said he had not determined "any flaws in the security measures".

Many residents, however, were not convinced after Chekatt managed to slip through the controls with a handgun and a knife. 
"It doesn't surprise me," said Emeline, 38, who works in the city centre. "You wear a heavy coat, put something in the bottom of your bag. You can bring in what you want."

'It's too painful'

France's anti-terror prosecutor Remy Heitz is to hold a press conference in Strasbourg on Friday while Interior Minister Christophe Castaner will attend the reopening of the market, which usually draws two million people every year.

France has been on high alert since the start of a wave of jihadist attacks in 2015, which prompted a threefold surge in the security budget for the market, to one million euros.

Chekatt, a 29-year-old career criminal who lived in a rundown apartment block a short drive from the city centre, was flagged by French security forces in 2015 as a possible Islamic extremist.

The propaganda wing of the Islamic State group claimed responsibility for Tuesday's attack, calling Chekatt one of its "soldiers" who responded to its calls to target citizens of nations in the coalition fighting the jihadists in Iraq and Syria.

Among the 13 injured in the attack, three remain in critical condition while three others have been released from hospital, Castaner said Thursday.

Strasbourg's deputy mayor Alain Fontanel admitted that despite patrols, plainclothes police, profilers and video surveillance, "the risks can be reduced, but not eliminated".

"We can't pat down and search everyone, only carry out random checks," he said, adding that huge lines at checkpoints would only create a new potential target for terrorists.

"Someone who wants to get in an area this big with a weapon can do it," he said.

Such reasoning was little comfort to the residents and tourists who flock to the Strasbourg market.

"We thought this would happen only in Nice or at the Bataclan, but here it is at home," said Sylvain, who works at another market in the city centre.

He was referring to the truck attack which killed scores at Bastille Day festivities in Nice, southern France, in 2016, and the massacre at the capital's Bataclan concert hall in November 2015.

"I'm not going to forget this anytime soon. It's too painful. I'm not even sure I'm able to cry," he said. 
&nbsp;

A relieved Strasbourg prepared to reopen its popular Christmas market on Friday after French police shot dead the gunman who killed three people there in an attack claimed by the Islamic State group.

A relieved Strasbourg prepared to reopen its popular Christmas market on Friday after French police shot dead the gunman who killed three people there in an attack claimed by the Islamic State group. Cherif Chekatt was killed late Thursday after a two-day manhunt when a police patrol spotted him on a street in the district where he was last seen after Tuesday night's attack on Christmas shoppers. The lights on the market's towering Christmas tree were illuminated Friday for the first time since the attack ahead of the official re-opening of the market at 11:00 am (1000 GMT). "I hope life will get back to normal but I'm not too sure," said Franck Hoffmann as opened his wooden chalet offering Christmas candles and ornaments on Friday. "Business isn't going to be what it was," he predicted. Questions remained over how Chekatt was able to evade the tight security perimeter set up for an event long known to be a prime target for jihadist groups. Around 500 police, security agents and soldiers control access at checkpoints on the bridges leading to the river island, a UN World Heritage site, that houses the market. The goal is to "create a bubble with searches at the entry points," Mayor Roland Ries said after the attack, while regional government representative Jean-Luc Marx said he had not determined "any flaws in the security measures". Many residents, however, were not convinced after Chekatt managed to slip through the controls with a handgun and a knife. "It doesn't surprise me," said Emeline, 38, who works in the city centre. "You wear a heavy coat, put something in the bottom of your bag. You can bring in what you want." 'It's too painful' France's anti-terror prosecutor Remy Heitz is to hold a press conference in Strasbourg on Friday while Interior Minister Christophe Castaner will attend the reopening of the market, which usually draws two million people every year. France has been on high alert since the start of a wave of jihadist attacks in 2015, which prompted a threefold surge in the security budget for the market, to one million euros. Chekatt, a 29-year-old career criminal who lived in a rundown apartment block a short drive from the city centre, was flagged by French security forces in 2015 as a possible Islamic extremist. The propaganda wing of the Islamic State group claimed responsibility for Tuesday's attack, calling Chekatt one of its "soldiers" who responded to its calls to target citizens of nations in the coalition fighting the jihadists in Iraq and Syria. Among the 13 injured in the attack, three remain in critical condition while three others have been released from hospital, Castaner said Thursday. Strasbourg's deputy mayor Alain Fontanel admitted that despite patrols, plainclothes police, profilers and video surveillance, "the risks can be reduced, but not eliminated". "We can't pat down and search everyone, only carry out random checks," he said, adding that huge lines at checkpoints would only create a new potential target for terrorists. "Someone who wants to get in an area this big with a weapon can do it," he said. Such reasoning was little comfort to the residents and tourists who flock to the Strasbourg market. "We thought this would happen only in Nice or at the Bataclan, but here it is at home," said Sylvain, who works at another market in the city centre. He was referring to the truck attack which killed scores at Bastille Day festivities in Nice, southern France, in 2016, and the massacre at the capital's Bataclan concert hall in November 2015. "I'm not going to forget this anytime soon. It's too painful. I'm not even sure I'm able to cry," he said.

Strasbourg reopens Christmas market after gunman killed

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/yellow-vest-protesters-unimpressed-by-macrons-speech-plan-to-continue-blockade-183127">'Yellow vest' protester</a> dies in France after being hit by truck&nbsp;on Thursday.

So far five people have died and hundreds have been injured during the protests.

November 17, marks the first day of road blockades across France, with nearly 290,000 demonstrators wearing the high-visibility yellow vests.

On Monday, December 10, following talks with representatives from unions and management, parliamentary and regional leaders, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/macron-hikes-minimum-wage-to-appease-yellow-vest-protesters-183016">Macron addresses the nation on television</a>.

More than 21 million watch as a sombre-looking president accepts his "share of responsibility" for the crisis and outlines a series of financial measures, including a rise in the minimum wage and tax-free overtime pay.&nbsp;

On Tuesday morning, "yellow vest" protests are still reported up in several parts of the country, while opposition leaders take to the airwaves to criticise the measures as too little, too late.

'Yellow vest' protester dies in France after being hit by truck on Thursday. So far five people have died and hundreds have been injured during the protests. November 17, marks the first day of road blockades across France, with nearly 290,000 demonstrators wearing the high-visibility yellow vests.

'Yellow vest' protester dies in France after being hit by truck on Thursday. So far five people have died and hundreds have been injured during the protests. November 17, marks the first day of road blockades across France, with nearly 290,000 demonstrators wearing the high-visibility yellow vests. On Monday, December 10, following talks with representatives from unions and management, parliamentary and regional leaders, Macron addresses the nation on television. More than 21 million watch as a sombre-looking president accepts his "share of responsibility" for the crisis and outlines a series of financial measures, including a rise in the minimum wage and tax-free overtime pay. On Tuesday morning, "yellow vest" protests are still reported up in several parts of the country, while opposition leaders take to the airwaves to criticise the measures as too little, too late.

Yellow vest protests: Death toll rises to five as another protester dies in France

Watch: WION Gravitas, 12th December, 2018

Australia cruised into the semi-finals of the ongoing Hockey World Cup for a record 11th consecutive time as they continue to display their on-field brilliance to defeat France in Bhubaneshwar on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Despite a valiant fight, the lowest-ranked side of the tournament lost 3-0 to the World no 1.&nbsp;

Jeremy Hayward (4’), Blake Govers (19’) and Aran Zalewski (37’) scored to put Australia into their semi-final.&nbsp;

The Australians, most often, burst into the French penalty circle from the middle. The French, at times, couldn’t keep up with the pace of the defending champions.

The incessant attacks yielded Australia several penalty corners. Some of them were converted while some were deflected.

France got their sole penalty corner of the first half in the last minute of the second quarter. But captain Victor Charlet’s drag-flick was blocked by an onrushing Trent Mitton.&nbsp;

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📸 | Glimpses from the game featuring <a href="https://twitter.com/Kookaburras?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Kookaburras</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/FF_Hockey?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FF_Hockey</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HWC2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HWC2018</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Odisha2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Odisha2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/1xI6nuHWQy">pic.twitter.com/1xI6nuHWQy</a>
— Hockey World Cup 2018 - Host Partner (@sports_odisha) <a href="https://twitter.com/sports_odisha/status/1072872473949925376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
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By virtue of this win, the defending champions, in Saturday’s semi-final will take on the winners of the India versus Netherlands match.

Australia cruised into the semi-finals of the ongoing Hockey World Cup for a record 11th consecutive time as they continue to display their on-field brilliance to defeat France in Bhubaneshwar on Wednesday.

Australia cruised into the semi-finals of the ongoing Hockey World Cup for a record 11th consecutive time as they continue to display their on-field brilliance to defeat France in Bhubaneshwar on Wednesday. Despite a valiant fight, the lowest-ranked side of the tournament lost 3-0 to the World no 1. Jeremy Hayward (4’), Blake Govers (19’) and Aran Zalewski (37’) scored to put Australia into their semi-final. The Australians, most often, burst into the French penalty circle from the middle. The French, at times, couldn’t keep up with the pace of the defending champions. The incessant attacks yielded Australia several penalty corners. Some of them were converted while some were deflected. France got their sole penalty corner of the first half in the last minute of the second quarter. But captain Victor Charlet’s drag-flick was blocked by an onrushing Trent Mitton. 📸 | Glimpses from the game featuring @Kookaburras and @FF_Hockey #HWC2018 #Odisha2018 pic.twitter.com/1xI6nuHWQy — Hockey World Cup 2018 - Host Partner (@sports_odisha) December 12, 2018 × By virtue of this win, the defending champions, in Saturday’s semi-final will take on the winners of the India versus Netherlands match.

Hockey World Cup: Australia thump France to reach semi-finals

A fugitive gunman who opened fire on Christmas shoppers at a market in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/gunman-kills-four-in-french-christmas-market-and-flees-183355">Strasbourg, eastern France</a>, shouted "Allahu akbar" (God is greatest) during his killing spree, French officials said Wednesday as anti-terror police joined a giant manhunt.

The attack took place Tuesday night around 8 pm (1900 GMT) in the heart of the medieval city as the market was closing, leaving two dead and 13 injured.&nbsp;

Witnesses said the suspect, a 29-year-old Strasbourg native identified as Cherif C., cried "Allahu Akbar" as he opened fire with a handgun and stabbed passers-by, France's anti-terror prosecutor Remy Heitz said Wednesday.

The man, who was on a watchlist for suspected religious extremists, had already been sentenced 27 times in France, Germany and Switzerland for crimes including violence and robbery.

Four people connected to him were detained in Strasbourg overnight, he added.

The man was flagged by French security forces in 2015 as a possible extremist while in prison, after he "called for practising a radical form of religion," deputy interior minister Laurent Nunez told France Inter radio Wednesday.

He is "known for a number of criminal offences (...) but has never been linked to terrorist offences," Nunez said.

The suspect lived in a rundown housing estate a short drive from the Christmas market, which draws some two million people each year to its wooden chalets selling festive decorations, mulled wine and food.

"His family has lived around here for a while, but he lived on his own nearby," Zach, a 22-year-old in the Poteries area of Strasbourg, told AFP. "He was discreet, not a thug."

Much of the centre of the city as well as the European Parliament building were locked down through night as teams of police and soldiers searched for the gunman.

He is thought to have been injured in an exchange of fire with soldiers who were patrolling the Christmas market as part of regular anti-terror operations.

The gunman then fled the scene in a taxi.

"I heard shooting and then there was pandemonium," one witness, who gave his name as Fatih, told AFP. "People were running everywhere."

'People running everywhere'

The government has raised the security alert level for terrorism to its highest, reinforcing border controls and patrols at all Christmas markets across France.

Hundreds of police, two helicopters, officers from elite anti-terror units and soldiers deployed Wednesday for the manhunt. 
Among the victims, two were killed outright and another has been declared brain-dead, while 12 more were injured, six critically, Heitz said.

The shooting spree comes as French leader Emmanuel Macron faces the biggest crisis of his presidency after three weeks of anti-government demonstrations sparked by fuel tax rises.

Security forces were already stretched by the often violent demonstrations during which five people have died and more than 1,400 been injured.

Police had wanted to arrest Cherif on Tuesday morning as part of a investigation into an attempted murder, Nunez said.

He was not at home, but police found a grenade, four knives and a pistol.

Strasbourg mayor Roland Ries said most of the victims were men, including one Thai tourist who was among the dead.

"Some were shot in the head," Ries told BFM television.&nbsp;

In Rome, the foreign ministry said one of the injured was an Italian journalist covering the European parliament, but did not confirm media reports that he was in a serious condition.

France shaken by attacks

France has been targeted by a series of attacks by Islamist gunmen since 2015, and the Strasbourg market was long considered a target.

Strict vehicle restrictions, security checks and patrols by armed police and soldiers have become the norm.&nbsp;

The SITE intelligence group, which monitors jihadist activity, said in November that a group aligned with the Islamic State group had warned of a Strasbourg attack with a social media post titled "O Christmas here we come - Strasbourg, 01 January 2019."

In 2016, a 23-year-old Tunisian killed 12 and injured 48 others when he ploughed a truck into a Christmas market in Berlin in an attack claimed by the Islamic State group.

He was shot dead by Italian police three days later after travelling through several European countries.

In November 2015, groups of jihadists murdered 130 people in Paris on November 13 in a coordinated rampage by Islamic State extremists that shook the country and Europe.&nbsp;

A 20-year-old Chechnya-born man went on a knife rampage in central Paris in May, killing one person and injuring four.

A total of 246 people have been killed in terror attacks in France since 2015, according to an AFP toll.

A fugitive gunman who opened fire on Christmas shoppers at a market in Strasbourg, eastern France, shouted "Allahu akbar" (God is greatest) during his killing spree, French officials said Wednesday as anti-terror police joined a giant manhunt.

A fugitive gunman who opened fire on Christmas shoppers at a market in Strasbourg, eastern France, shouted "Allahu akbar" (God is greatest) during his killing spree, French officials said Wednesday as anti-terror police joined a giant manhunt. The attack took place Tuesday night around 8 pm (1900 GMT) in the heart of the medieval city as the market was closing, leaving two dead and 13 injured. Witnesses said the suspect, a 29-year-old Strasbourg native identified as Cherif C., cried "Allahu Akbar" as he opened fire with a handgun and stabbed passers-by, France's anti-terror prosecutor Remy Heitz said Wednesday. The man, who was on a watchlist for suspected religious extremists, had already been sentenced 27 times in France, Germany and Switzerland for crimes including violence and robbery. Four people connected to him were detained in Strasbourg overnight, he added. The man was flagged by French security forces in 2015 as a possible extremist while in prison, after he "called for practising a radical form of religion," deputy interior minister Laurent Nunez told France Inter radio Wednesday. He is "known for a number of criminal offences (...) but has never been linked to terrorist offences," Nunez said. The suspect lived in a rundown housing estate a short drive from the Christmas market, which draws some two million people each year to its wooden chalets selling festive decorations, mulled wine and food. "His family has lived around here for a while, but he lived on his own nearby," Zach, a 22-year-old in the Poteries area of Strasbourg, told AFP. "He was discreet, not a thug." Much of the centre of the city as well as the European Parliament building were locked down through night as teams of police and soldiers searched for the gunman. He is thought to have been injured in an exchange of fire with soldiers who were patrolling the Christmas market as part of regular anti-terror operations. The gunman then fled the scene in a taxi. "I heard shooting and then there was pandemonium," one witness, who gave his name as Fatih, told AFP. "People were running everywhere." 'People running everywhere' The government has raised the security alert level for terrorism to its highest, reinforcing border controls and patrols at all Christmas markets across France. Hundreds of police, two helicopters, officers from elite anti-terror units and soldiers deployed Wednesday for the manhunt. Among the victims, two were killed outright and another has been declared brain-dead, while 12 more were injured, six critically, Heitz said. The shooting spree comes as French leader Emmanuel Macron faces the biggest crisis of his presidency after three weeks of anti-government demonstrations sparked by fuel tax rises. Security forces were already stretched by the often violent demonstrations during which five people have died and more than 1,400 been injured. Police had wanted to arrest Cherif on Tuesday morning as part of a investigation into an attempted murder, Nunez said. He was not at home, but police found a grenade, four knives and a pistol. Strasbourg mayor Roland Ries said most of the victims were men, including one Thai tourist who was among the dead. "Some were shot in the head," Ries told BFM television. In Rome, the foreign ministry said one of the injured was an Italian journalist covering the European parliament, but did not confirm media reports that he was in a serious condition. France shaken by attacks France has been targeted by a series of attacks by Islamist gunmen since 2015, and the Strasbourg market was long considered a target. Strict vehicle restrictions, security checks and patrols by armed police and soldiers have become the norm. The SITE intelligence group, which monitors jihadist activity, said in November that a group aligned with the Islamic State group had warned of a Strasbourg attack with a social media post titled "O Christmas here we come - Strasbourg, 01 January 2019." In 2016, a 23-year-old Tunisian killed 12 and injured 48 others when he ploughed a truck into a Christmas market in Berlin in an attack claimed by the Islamic State group. He was shot dead by Italian police three days later after travelling through several European countries. In November 2015, groups of jihadists murdered 130 people in Paris on November 13 in a coordinated rampage by Islamic State extremists that shook the country and Europe. A 20-year-old Chechnya-born man went on a knife rampage in central Paris in May, killing one person and injuring four. A total of 246 people have been killed in terror attacks in France since 2015, according to an AFP toll.

Strasbourg shooting suspect cried out 'Allahu Akbar': Paris prosecutor

WION Dispatch: Strasbourg attacker cried 'allahu akbar' while shooting

A day after President <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/macron-hikes-minimum-wage-to-appease-yellow-vest-protesters-183016">Emmanuel Macron announced measures to help quell a mass revolt </a>over living standards, "yellow vest" protesters picketing outside a shopping centre in central France on Tuesday pledged to stay put.

The two dozen or so demonstrators gathered near the entrance in St Etienne said they would only stop once the government had taken "real" measures to reduce inequalities.

"France's motto is 'liberty, equality, fraternity'. Fraternity we've found through our movement, but where is equality? There isn't any equality of opportunity in this country," a 36-year-old social worker, who gave her name as Nadine, told AFP.

"The real issue is wealth distribution," said a student called Jerome and who -- like many of his fellow protesters -- would have liked to hear Macron renege on his decision, taken a year ago, to scrap a top-up tax on the wealthy.

It's much the same story at the entrance to the A8 motorway in La Barque, near Aix-en-Provence in southern France, where "yellow vests" who have occupied the toll booths letting traffic drive past for free.

"I'm pleased with what we've achieved. After three weeks we've forced him to cave in," said Arnaud Ansermier, a construction worker, speaking of Macron's tax concessions.

"We've pushed the door open, but it's not enough," he said.

"I'm prepared to spend Christmas and New Year here, we can get what we want," he added. 
What he really wants, he said, is a better standard of living. With two children, he earns "2,000 euros ($2,290) and a bit" and finds it hard to make ends meet.

'Trying to trick us'

Etienne Royer, a 34-year-old part-time driver, has just turned up to join around a dozen "yellow vests" gathered around an open fire next to a wall of floor-board pallets thrown up to protect them from an icy wind.

"Before, I just watched all this on the television," he said, adding that he decided to join the protest last weekend.

"It's important not to let the movement run out of steam because Macron is really trying to trick us," he added.

"Closing the toll booths is one of our better weapons. Just holding up traffic quickly annoys people. And we must keep people on our side," he added.

According to police, there were 1,900 "yellow vest" protesters blockading some 40 sites across France on Tuesday morning.

Support for the "yellow vest" protesters has nevertheless dropped sharply following Macron's concessions, though the country remains largely split, two opinion polls showed Tuesday.

One poll, carried out by Opinionway, said 54 per cent of those surveyed wanted the protests to stop, while 45 per cent still backed the rallies.

Another, carried out Odoxa, showed nearly reverse figures, with 46 per cent wanting protests to stop and 54 per cent wanting them to continue.

Both polls also revealed a major shift in public opinion overall as more than two out of three people had previously supported the grassroots movement, which sprang up on November 17 in opposition to fuel taxes but snowballed into broad opposition to Macron's pro-business agenda.

A day after President Emmanuel Macron announced measures to help quell a mass revolt over living standards, "yellow vest" protesters picketing outside a shopping centre in central France on Tuesday pledged to stay put.

A day after President Emmanuel Macron announced measures to help quell a mass revolt over living standards, "yellow vest" protesters picketing outside a shopping centre in central France on Tuesday pledged to stay put. The two dozen or so demonstrators gathered near the entrance in St Etienne said they would only stop once the government had taken "real" measures to reduce inequalities. "France's motto is 'liberty, equality, fraternity'. Fraternity we've found through our movement, but where is equality? There isn't any equality of opportunity in this country," a 36-year-old social worker, who gave her name as Nadine, told AFP. "The real issue is wealth distribution," said a student called Jerome and who -- like many of his fellow protesters -- would have liked to hear Macron renege on his decision, taken a year ago, to scrap a top-up tax on the wealthy. It's much the same story at the entrance to the A8 motorway in La Barque, near Aix-en-Provence in southern France, where "yellow vests" who have occupied the toll booths letting traffic drive past for free. "I'm pleased with what we've achieved. After three weeks we've forced him to cave in," said Arnaud Ansermier, a construction worker, speaking of Macron's tax concessions. "We've pushed the door open, but it's not enough," he said. "I'm prepared to spend Christmas and New Year here, we can get what we want," he added. What he really wants, he said, is a better standard of living. With two children, he earns "2,000 euros ($2,290) and a bit" and finds it hard to make ends meet. 'Trying to trick us' Etienne Royer, a 34-year-old part-time driver, has just turned up to join around a dozen "yellow vests" gathered around an open fire next to a wall of floor-board pallets thrown up to protect them from an icy wind. "Before, I just watched all this on the television," he said, adding that he decided to join the protest last weekend. "It's important not to let the movement run out of steam because Macron is really trying to trick us," he added. "Closing the toll booths is one of our better weapons. Just holding up traffic quickly annoys people. And we must keep people on our side," he added. According to police, there were 1,900 "yellow vest" protesters blockading some 40 sites across France on Tuesday morning. Support for the "yellow vest" protesters has nevertheless dropped sharply following Macron's concessions, though the country remains largely split, two opinion polls showed Tuesday. One poll, carried out by Opinionway, said 54 per cent of those surveyed wanted the protests to stop, while 45 per cent still backed the rallies. Another, carried out Odoxa, showed nearly reverse figures, with 46 per cent wanting protests to stop and 54 per cent wanting them to continue. Both polls also revealed a major shift in public opinion overall as more than two out of three people had previously supported the grassroots movement, which sprang up on November 17 in opposition to fuel taxes but snowballed into broad opposition to Macron's pro-business agenda.

'We can get what we want,' French protesters vow

WION Gravitas: Brexit roadblock, Mallya extradition, India state poll results and more

French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Monday a 100-euro ($113) per month increase in the minimum wage from next year in a major concession to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/yellow-vest-protests-slow-french-economy-piling-pressure-on-macron-182884">"yellow vest" protesters</a> who have roiled the country.

The minimum wage was set at 1,498 euros per month pre-tax in 2018 and 1,185 euros after tax.&nbsp;

Macron also rolled back most of an unpopular increase in taxes on pensioners which was introduced by his government.

In an address to the nation, the 40-year-old former investment banker also struck a more humble tone than usual as he sought to address criticism of his style of leadership.

"I know that I have hurt some of you with my statements," he said.

He stressed, however, that the protests by mostly low-income people in small town or rural France were the result of long-term problems.

"Their distress doesn't date from yesterday. We have ended up getting used to it," he said.

"These are forty years of malaise that have come to the surface," he added.

French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Monday a 100-euro ($113) per month increase in the minimum wage from next year in a major concession to "yellow vest" protesters who have roiled the country.

French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Monday a 100-euro ($113) per month increase in the minimum wage from next year in a major concession to "yellow vest" protesters who have roiled the country. The minimum wage was set at 1,498 euros per month pre-tax in 2018 and 1,185 euros after tax. Macron also rolled back most of an unpopular increase in taxes on pensioners which was introduced by his government. In an address to the nation, the 40-year-old former investment banker also struck a more humble tone than usual as he sought to address criticism of his style of leadership. "I know that I have hurt some of you with my statements," he said. He stressed, however, that the protests by mostly low-income people in small town or rural France were the result of long-term problems. "Their distress doesn't date from yesterday. We have ended up getting used to it," he said. "These are forty years of malaise that have come to the surface," he added.

Macron hikes minimum wage after 'yellow vest' protests in France

WION Gravitas: French govt launches probe against protests

With France reeling under violent <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/yellow-vest-protest-french-pm-calls-for-dialogue-ensuring-measures-to-cut-rising-costs-182571">'yellow vest'&nbsp;protests</a> due to the hike in fuel taxes and deteriorating economic situation, demonstrations have spread like wildfire and entered Belgium and the Netherlands.

Hundreds of protesters wearing high-visibility yellow fluorescent vests descended upon the streets of Brussels to protest against higher fuel prices, where the agitation turned violent as protesters damaged public property and clashed with security forces, Anadolu News Agency reported.

Amid the tensions, police personnel were forced to use water cannons and pepper spray in a bid to disperse the demonstrators.

Protestors gathered in Arts-Loi in Brussels and staged a massive walkout towards Schuman Roundabout, home to a number of European Union offices and towards the European Parliament, but were stopped by the security forces.

During the clashes, the agitators blocked arterial roads, threw stun grenades and damaged traffic signals and the environment.

Over 100 people have been detained by the police so far. They have demanded Belgian Prime Minister Charles Michel to step down from his post.

In the cities of Amsterdam and Rotterdam in the Netherlands, protestors staged a peaceful demonstration in various parts, singing and handing flowers to the passers-by and asking them to participate in the agitation, according to local media reports.

Security has been heightened in both the countries as more protests are planned in the coming days.

Back in France, at least 200 people were arrested on Saturday, with the police resorting to firing hundreds of tear gas shells to disperse crowds during the ongoing fourth week of protests across the country against President Emmanuel Macron-led government.

A number of France's monuments, including the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris, remained closed as authorities anticipated a repeat of last week`s violence, deploying over 8,000 policemen in the French capital to maintain order.

The protests on Saturday were the fourth in a series that last week culminated into the worst rioting in France for decades. The government expects more protests in the country in the following days, owing to which, around 89,000 security personnel have been deployed across France.

The yellow vest protests, which initially began as a campaign against skyrocketing fuel prices, has expanded into a huge agitation over discontent on a wide variety of issues against the French government in recent weeks.

The demonstrations, which began on November 17, went on to become one of France's worst rioting in decades as protesters clashed with the police, looted shops and set fire to vehicles around Paris'&nbsp;Champs Elysees avenue last weekend.

Macron, who said that the hike was necessary to tackle the threat of climate change, has drawn huge criticisms from the protestors, who believe that the French President has been enacting policies in favour of the country`s richest section of society.

With France reeling under violent 'yellow vest' protests due to the hike in fuel taxes and deteriorating economic situation, demonstrations have spread like wildfire and entered Belgium and the Netherlands.

With France reeling under violent 'yellow vest' protests due to the hike in fuel taxes and deteriorating economic situation, demonstrations have spread like wildfire and entered Belgium and the Netherlands. Hundreds of protesters wearing high-visibility yellow fluorescent vests descended upon the streets of Brussels to protest against higher fuel prices, where the agitation turned violent as protesters damaged public property and clashed with security forces, Anadolu News Agency reported. Amid the tensions, police personnel were forced to use water cannons and pepper spray in a bid to disperse the demonstrators. Protestors gathered in Arts-Loi in Brussels and staged a massive walkout towards Schuman Roundabout, home to a number of European Union offices and towards the European Parliament, but were stopped by the security forces. During the clashes, the agitators blocked arterial roads, threw stun grenades and damaged traffic signals and the environment. Over 100 people have been detained by the police so far. They have demanded Belgian Prime Minister Charles Michel to step down from his post. In the cities of Amsterdam and Rotterdam in the Netherlands, protestors staged a peaceful demonstration in various parts, singing and handing flowers to the passers-by and asking them to participate in the agitation, according to local media reports. Security has been heightened in both the countries as more protests are planned in the coming days. Back in France, at least 200 people were arrested on Saturday, with the police resorting to firing hundreds of tear gas shells to disperse crowds during the ongoing fourth week of protests across the country against President Emmanuel Macron-led government. A number of France's monuments, including the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris, remained closed as authorities anticipated a repeat of last week`s violence, deploying over 8,000 policemen in the French capital to maintain order. The protests on Saturday were the fourth in a series that last week culminated into the worst rioting in France for decades. The government expects more protests in the country in the following days, owing to which, around 89,000 security personnel have been deployed across France. The yellow vest protests, which initially began as a campaign against skyrocketing fuel prices, has expanded into a huge agitation over discontent on a wide variety of issues against the French government in recent weeks. The demonstrations, which began on November 17, went on to become one of France's worst rioting in decades as protesters clashed with the police, looted shops and set fire to vehicles around Paris' Champs Elysees avenue last weekend. Macron, who said that the hike was necessary to tackle the threat of climate change, has drawn huge criticisms from the protestors, who believe that the French President has been enacting policies in favour of the country`s richest section of society.

'Yellow vest' protests spread to Belgium, Netherlands

More than 1,700 people were arrested across France during the latest round of "yellow vest" protests, in which demonstrators clashed with riot police, the interior ministry said Sunday.

Clashes broke out in several cities, including Marseille, Bordeaux, Lyon and Toulouse, during the fourth weekend of nationwide protests against rising living costs and President Emmanuel Macron in general.

A total 1,220 of the 1,723 detained were ordered held in custody, the ministry said.

Police in Paris said they made 1,082 arrests on Saturday, up sharply from 412 in the previous round.

The interior ministry said some 136,000 people took part in Saturday's protests, around the same number as on December 1.

But it was Paris which again bore the brunt of the violence and destruction.

Protesters in the capital set fire to cars, burned barricades and smashed windows in pockets of violence, clad in their emblematic luminous safety jackets, as armoured vehicles rolled through the streets.

City authorities said the 'yellow vests' had caused "much more damage" than on December 1.

"The sector concerned by the incidents was much larger... With fewer barricades, there was much more dispersion, so many more places were impacted by violence," Paris deputy mayor Emmanuel Gregoire told France Inter radio.

The embattled president -- whose name rang out across the Champs-Elysees as protesters shouted "Macron, resign" -- is expected to address the demonstrations in a much-anticipated speech in the coming days.

More than 1,700 people were arrested across France during the latest round of "yellow vest" protests, in which demonstrators clashed with riot police, the interior ministry said Sunday.

More than 1,700 people were arrested across France during the latest round of "yellow vest" protests, in which demonstrators clashed with riot police, the interior ministry said Sunday. Clashes broke out in several cities, including Marseille, Bordeaux, Lyon and Toulouse, during the fourth weekend of nationwide protests against rising living costs and President Emmanuel Macron in general. A total 1,220 of the 1,723 detained were ordered held in custody, the ministry said. Police in Paris said they made 1,082 arrests on Saturday, up sharply from 412 in the previous round. The interior ministry said some 136,000 people took part in Saturday's protests, around the same number as on December 1. But it was Paris which again bore the brunt of the violence and destruction. Protesters in the capital set fire to cars, burned barricades and smashed windows in pockets of violence, clad in their emblematic luminous safety jackets, as armoured vehicles rolled through the streets. City authorities said the 'yellow vests' had caused "much more damage" than on December 1. "The sector concerned by the incidents was much larger... With fewer barricades, there was much more dispersion, so many more places were impacted by violence," Paris deputy mayor Emmanuel Gregoire told France Inter radio. The embattled president -- whose name rang out across the Champs-Elysees as protesters shouted "Macron, resign" -- is expected to address the demonstrations in a much-anticipated speech in the coming days.

Over 1,700 arrested in latest 'yellow vest' protests in France

France braced for 'ultra-violent' protests: Huge losses to traders, retailers

I was in Paris on November 11, 2018, and drove 200 km north to Lille to participate in the hundredth anniversary of Armistice Day with the people of the township of Levantie where my regiment fought during the Great War. Paris was as beautiful as ever especially as one drove along the Champs de Elysees past the Arc de Triomphe. Sitting at a roadside cafe, one could sense how busy Parisians were with their lives. The multitudes of ethnicities and faiths could be sensed in the hustle and bustle of lunch hour. French President Emmanuel Macron, in a long coat and thick woollen scarf, looked immaculate and confident on television as he welcomed world leaders for the Armistice Day celebrations and even offered advice on resolving the world’s problems.

Within a week after my return, everything seemed to have gone berserk in Paris. In France, after every few years, this happens with fair regularity. This time it’s the Yellow Vests rebellion, the name coming from the high-visibility vests that the protesters wear. My recall of France inevitably starts with the French Revolution of 1789, which in many ways gave the world the lasting socialist slogan. ‘Liberty, equality, fraternity’, the motto of the French Revolution may have many interpretations but France keeps returning to that socialist clarion call ever so often. 
 
The street rebellion of 1968 removed as iconic a leader as Charles de &nbsp;Gaulle. These are the most violent protests since then. It is being said that this time it’s all about an ecological transition; earlier rebellions in the not-too-distant past were against the markets and globalisation.

Not too many people are really aware how this started but apparently protests and demonstrations have been on in almost 2000 locations all over France since early November. Despite being social media instigated and triggered, somehow it took the political communities of France and Europe by relative surprise. It’s Macron’s supposed obsession with his own sense of responsibility which many times does border on idealism. He is committed to ecology and wishes to see France transit very early to clean fuels, renewable energy and the likes. Putting it simply, the trigger is the increase in fuel prices, done primarily to reduce consumption of hydrocarbons, reduce harmful emissions and force the transition he has in mind. He probably hoped it will reduce private transport and force people to use public transport in a much bigger way. Nothing wrong with that but the execution is akin to Marie Antoinette’s famous quip: “If the people don’t have bread, give them cake.” Macron’s perception of public transport is probably limited to cities such as Paris, Nice and Marseilles. In the little driving that I did around, in the smaller towns in the north I found no public transport worth the name. People have to use private vehicles and the fuel price increase has hit them hard. Diesel prices would increase by 30 cents a gallon and petrol by 17 cents if Macron’s proposals are finally implemented.

Yet, fuel price hike is only a trigger. Beneath that lies much more than meets the eye. It’s a lot to do with France’s societal makeup today. Macron who was enthusiastically voted to power with a 66 per cent vote over the far-right candidate Marine Le Pen is today largely considered a rich man’s President. He scrapped wealth tax on taxpayers worth 1.3 million Euro and hiked taxes on the pensioners and retirees. Very few think he has an understanding of the financial predicament of the common French people. The protests are also fuelled by the presence of immigrants and are a cause of worry regarding the security of the cities. Just two years ago, France was the victim of horrific terrorist violence perpetrated by the ISIS, an entity which still exists in the virtual networked state. Such situations with high public antipathy can give the opportunities transnational terrorist organisations seek. The Yellow Vests are in no mood for compromise although Macron has partially learnt his lessons and is willing to roll back fuel prices. They are now seeking higher pensions and minimum wages. In one of Europe’s highest taxed nations, France is unable to generate jobs for its restive young. This being a leaderless rebellion, with low profile online leaders, it’s going to be difficult to focus on neutralisation of the leadership.

Besides the immediate problems of instability in France, Macron’s future is at stake. Earlier, he was placing himself as a potential successor to German Chancellor Angela Merkel as the leader of Europe. Macron‘s chances of re-election would be greatly reduced unless the economy witnesses a turnaround. Fresh elections now could throw up unpredictable results. It could also have a snowballing effect on other European nations in the manner of the Arab Spring. That could see a resurgence of nationalism and an advantage to the right wing which, two years ago, were on the rise but whose growth was arrested by a spate of centrist parties. Security wise that would not be a very conducive thing in light of the continuing crisis all over Europe with increasing presence of immigrants.

If there is a lesson for the world in these events it is about the necessity to keep channels open for talks with different societal groups. We have yet not seen the fully unleashed power of social media as a facilitator of getting far-flung regions and people together to express their discontentment, often quite violently. 
 
(This article was originally published on DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-fuelling-the-french-rebellion-2693395">original article)</a>

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

I was in Paris on November 11, 2018, and drove 200 km north to Lille to participate in the hundredth anniversary of Armistice Day with the people of the township of Levantie where my regiment fought during the Great War.

I was in Paris on November 11, 2018, and drove 200 km north to Lille to participate in the hundredth anniversary of Armistice Day with the people of the township of Levantie where my regiment fought during the Great War. Paris was as beautiful as ever especially as one drove along the Champs de Elysees past the Arc de Triomphe. Sitting at a roadside cafe, one could sense how busy Parisians were with their lives. The multitudes of ethnicities and faiths could be sensed in the hustle and bustle of lunch hour. French President Emmanuel Macron, in a long coat and thick woollen scarf, looked immaculate and confident on television as he welcomed world leaders for the Armistice Day celebrations and even offered advice on resolving the world’s problems. Within a week after my return, everything seemed to have gone berserk in Paris. In France, after every few years, this happens with fair regularity. This time it’s the Yellow Vests rebellion, the name coming from the high-visibility vests that the protesters wear. My recall of France inevitably starts with the French Revolution of 1789, which in many ways gave the world the lasting socialist slogan. ‘Liberty, equality, fraternity’, the motto of the French Revolution may have many interpretations but France keeps returning to that socialist clarion call ever so often. The street rebellion of 1968 removed as iconic a leader as Charles de Gaulle. These are the most violent protests since then. It is being said that this time it’s all about an ecological transition; earlier rebellions in the not-too-distant past were against the markets and globalisation. Not too many people are really aware how this started but apparently protests and demonstrations have been on in almost 2000 locations all over France since early November. Despite being social media instigated and triggered, somehow it took the political communities of France and Europe by relative surprise. It’s Macron’s supposed obsession with his own sense of responsibility which many times does border on idealism. He is committed to ecology and wishes to see France transit very early to clean fuels, renewable energy and the likes. Putting it simply, the trigger is the increase in fuel prices, done primarily to reduce consumption of hydrocarbons, reduce harmful emissions and force the transition he has in mind. He probably hoped it will reduce private transport and force people to use public transport in a much bigger way. Nothing wrong with that but the execution is akin to Marie Antoinette’s famous quip: “If the people don’t have bread, give them cake.” Macron’s perception of public transport is probably limited to cities such as Paris, Nice and Marseilles. In the little driving that I did around, in the smaller towns in the north I found no public transport worth the name. People have to use private vehicles and the fuel price increase has hit them hard. Diesel prices would increase by 30 cents a gallon and petrol by 17 cents if Macron’s proposals are finally implemented. Yet, fuel price hike is only a trigger. Beneath that lies much more than meets the eye. It’s a lot to do with France’s societal makeup today. Macron who was enthusiastically voted to power with a 66 per cent vote over the far-right candidate Marine Le Pen is today largely considered a rich man’s President. He scrapped wealth tax on taxpayers worth 1.3 million Euro and hiked taxes on the pensioners and retirees. Very few think he has an understanding of the financial predicament of the common French people. The protests are also fuelled by the presence of immigrants and are a cause of worry regarding the security of the cities. Just two years ago, France was the victim of horrific terrorist violence perpetrated by the ISIS, an entity which still exists in the virtual networked state. Such situations with high public antipathy can give the opportunities transnational terrorist organisations seek. The Yellow Vests are in no mood for compromise although Macron has partially learnt his lessons and is willing to roll back fuel prices. They are now seeking higher pensions and minimum wages. In one of Europe’s highest taxed nations, France is unable to generate jobs for its restive young. This being a leaderless rebellion, with low profile online leaders, it’s going to be difficult to focus on neutralisation of the leadership. Besides the immediate problems of instability in France, Macron’s future is at stake. Earlier, he was placing himself as a potential successor to German Chancellor Angela Merkel as the leader of Europe. Macron‘s chances of re-election would be greatly reduced unless the economy witnesses a turnaround. Fresh elections now could throw up unpredictable results. It could also have a snowballing effect on other European nations in the manner of the Arab Spring. That could see a resurgence of nationalism and an advantage to the right wing which, two years ago, were on the rise but whose growth was arrested by a spate of centrist parties. Security wise that would not be a very conducive thing in light of the continuing crisis all over Europe with increasing presence of immigrants. If there is a lesson for the world in these events it is about the necessity to keep channels open for talks with different societal groups. We have yet not seen the fully unleashed power of social media as a facilitator of getting far-flung regions and people together to express their discontentment, often quite violently. (This article was originally published on DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Fuelling the French rebellion

Yellow Vest Protests: Paris on lockdown as anti-Macron puts France on edge

Yellow Vest Protest: Anti-Macron protests put France on edge

In a high voltage match, France defeated Olympic Champions Argentina 5-3 in the 3rd round of Pool-A match of the Men’s Hockey World Cup at Kalinga stadium in Bhubaneshwar on Thursday.&nbsp;

However, Argentina are through to the quarterfinals as they top the table with six points after defeating Spain 4-3 in the first match and New Zealand 3-0 in their 2nd match.

The bad news is for Spain as they got eliminated after being at the fourth position in Pool-A.

Meanwhile, France ended their pool engagements on the second spot with our points on account of a better goal difference than New Zealand (4 points).

As per the format of the tournament, the top four teams from four pools will directly qualify for the quarterfinals while the second and third-placed sides will play cross-over matches against teams of other pools for the remaining four last eight berths.

In a high voltage match, France defeated Olympic Champions Argentina 5-3 in the 3rd round of Pool-A match of the Men’s Hockey World Cup at Kalinga stadium in Bhubaneshwar on Thursday.

In a high voltage match, France defeated Olympic Champions Argentina 5-3 in the 3rd round of Pool-A match of the Men’s Hockey World Cup at Kalinga stadium in Bhubaneshwar on Thursday. However, Argentina are through to the quarterfinals as they top the table with six points after defeating Spain 4-3 in the first match and New Zealand 3-0 in their 2nd match. The bad news is for Spain as they got eliminated after being at the fourth position in Pool-A. Meanwhile, France ended their pool engagements on the second spot with our points on account of a better goal difference than New Zealand (4 points). As per the format of the tournament, the top four teams from four pools will directly qualify for the quarterfinals while the second and third-placed sides will play cross-over matches against teams of other pools for the remaining four last eight berths.

Hockey World Cup: France upset Argentina; knock Spain out of tournament

New Zealand fought back from two goals down to hold Spain to a 2-2 draw in their penultimate Pool A match. By the virtue of this draw, the Kiwis have qualified for the knock-out stages of the men’s hockey World Cup.&nbsp;

Spain scored two field goals in the opening two quarters through Albert Beltran (9th minute) and Alvaro Iglesias (27th) to go into the half time with a comfortable 2-0 lead.

But the Black Sticks made a stupendous comeback in the final 10 minutes of the game and scored through Hayden Phillips (50th) and Kane Russell (56th) to upset the World no 8.&nbsp;

In the encounter, it was the Black Sticks who had the first shy at the goal in the sixth minute but Hugo Inglis strike from close range was saved by Spain captain and goalkeeper Quico Cortes.

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📸 | Glimpses from the tightly-fought game between <a href="https://twitter.com/rfe_hockey?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rfe_hockey</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/BlackSticks?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BlackSticks</a>!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HWC2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HWC2018</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Odisha2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Odisha2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/TqCKNl0YBp">pic.twitter.com/TqCKNl0YBp</a>
— Hockey World Cup 2018 - Host Partner (@sports_odisha) <a href="https://twitter.com/sports_odisha/status/1070669398053011456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, Olympic champions Argentina are at top of Pool A with six points from two wins. Despite losing to France by a margin of two goals, Argentina continues to top Pool A.

New Zealand fought back from two goals down to hold Spain to a 2-2 draw in their penultimate Pool A match. By the virtue of this draw, the Kiwis have qualified for the knock-out stages of the men’s hockey World Cup.

New Zealand fought back from two goals down to hold Spain to a 2-2 draw in their penultimate Pool A match. By the virtue of this draw, the Kiwis have qualified for the knock-out stages of the men’s hockey World Cup. Spain scored two field goals in the opening two quarters through Albert Beltran (9th minute) and Alvaro Iglesias (27th) to go into the half time with a comfortable 2-0 lead. But the Black Sticks made a stupendous comeback in the final 10 minutes of the game and scored through Hayden Phillips (50th) and Kane Russell (56th) to upset the World no 8. In the encounter, it was the Black Sticks who had the first shy at the goal in the sixth minute but Hugo Inglis strike from close range was saved by Spain captain and goalkeeper Quico Cortes. 📸 | Glimpses from the tightly-fought game between @rfe_hockey and @BlackSticks!#HWC2018 #Odisha2018 pic.twitter.com/TqCKNl0YBp — Hockey World Cup 2018 - Host Partner (@sports_odisha) December 6, 2018 × Meanwhile, Olympic champions Argentina are at top of Pool A with six points from two wins. Despite losing to France by a margin of two goals, Argentina continues to top Pool A.

Hockey World Cup 2018: New Zealand hold Spain to 2-2 draw, qualify for cross-overs

French government scraps all plans to hike fuel taxes following yellow-vest protests

French government appeals nationwide protesters against high pump prices for calm

Watch: WION Dispatch, 4th December, 2018

French President <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/macron-seeks-way-out-of-crisis-after-paris-riots-181190">Emmanuel Macron</a> and Prime Minister Edouard Philippe's approval ratings hit new lows as the "yellow vest" protests gathered pace, according to an Ifop-Fiducial poll for Paris Match and Sud Radio published on Tuesday.

Macron's approval rating fell to 23 per cent in the poll conducted late last week, down six points on the previous month. Philippe's rating fell 10 points to 26 per cent.

The president's score matches the low charted by his predecessor Francois Hollande in late 2013, according to Paris Match. Hollande was then considered to be the least popular leader in modern French history.

The first "yellow vest" demonstrations were held on November 17 to contest fuel-tax rises, and have since evolved into a broader protest movement and anti-Macron uprising.

Protests in Paris on December 1 turned particularly violent, with the Arc de Triomphe defaced and avenues off Paris's Champs Elysees suffering mass vandalism.

A government source said on Tuesday that the French government is preparing to suspend fuel tax increases in the wake of violent protests against the measures.

The source added that Prime Minister Edouard Philippe was due to announce the suspension later on Tuesday.

French President Emmanuel Macron and Prime Minister Edouard Philippe's approval ratings hit new lows as the "yellow vest" protests gathered pace, according to an Ifop-Fiducial poll for Paris Match and Sud Radio published on Tuesday.

French President Emmanuel Macron and Prime Minister Edouard Philippe's approval ratings hit new lows as the "yellow vest" protests gathered pace, according to an Ifop-Fiducial poll for Paris Match and Sud Radio published on Tuesday. Macron's approval rating fell to 23 per cent in the poll conducted late last week, down six points on the previous month. Philippe's rating fell 10 points to 26 per cent. The president's score matches the low charted by his predecessor Francois Hollande in late 2013, according to Paris Match. Hollande was then considered to be the least popular leader in modern French history. The first "yellow vest" demonstrations were held on November 17 to contest fuel-tax rises, and have since evolved into a broader protest movement and anti-Macron uprising. Protests in Paris on December 1 turned particularly violent, with the Arc de Triomphe defaced and avenues off Paris's Champs Elysees suffering mass vandalism. A government source said on Tuesday that the French government is preparing to suspend fuel tax increases in the wake of violent protests against the measures. The source added that Prime Minister Edouard Philippe was due to announce the suspension later on Tuesday.

Macron's popularity hits new low amid French protests: Poll

WION Gravitas: Anti-govt protests grip Paris

Skipper and goalkeeper Quico Cortes' brilliant penalty stroke save helped Spain hold France in a &nbsp;hard-fought 1-1 draw in their second Pool A match at the ongoing men's hockey World Cup on Monday.

The draw kept both the teams in the hunt for the knock-out round with one point apiece from two games.

It was a battle between world number 8 Spain and the 20th ranked France. It was France who stunned the Spaniards in the sixth minute when Timothee Clement scored from a field effort.

Spain came back strongly and restored parity in the 48th minute through Alvaro Iglesias' field strike.

France had a golden opportunity to register their first major upset of the tournament but the Spain skipper Cortes came to his side's rescue.

In the last 10 minutes, France were awarded a penalty stroke because of obstruction in front of the goal by a Spain defender after they went for video referral but Cortes made a brilliant save.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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.<a href="https://twitter.com/rfe_hockey?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rfe_hockey</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/FF_Hockey?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FF_Hockey</a> showcased valiant effort on the turf which ended as a hard-fought 1-1 draw. Here are the best moments captured from the match. 
 
ALBUM: <a href="https://t.co/Gbh3FWXjUq">https://t.co/Gbh3FWXjUq</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaKaGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaKaGame</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HWC2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HWC2018</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DilHockey?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DilHockey</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ESPvFRA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ESPvFRA</a> <a href="https://t.co/aMjLovdasP">pic.twitter.com/aMjLovdasP</a>
— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHockeyIndia/status/1069589010283094017?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Spain had lost 3-4 to Olympic champions Argentina in their tournament opener, while France suffered a 1-2 defeat against New Zealand.

Spain will next play New Zealand in their final pool match on December 6, while France will be up against Argentina.&nbsp;

Skipper and goalkeeper Quico Cortes' brilliant penalty stroke save helped Spain hold France in a hard-fought 1-1 draw in their second Pool A match at the ongoing men's hockey World Cup on Monday.

Skipper and goalkeeper Quico Cortes' brilliant penalty stroke save helped Spain hold France in a hard-fought 1-1 draw in their second Pool A match at the ongoing men's hockey World Cup on Monday. The draw kept both the teams in the hunt for the knock-out round with one point apiece from two games. It was a battle between world number 8 Spain and the 20th ranked France. It was France who stunned the Spaniards in the sixth minute when Timothee Clement scored from a field effort. Spain came back strongly and restored parity in the 48th minute through Alvaro Iglesias' field strike. France had a golden opportunity to register their first major upset of the tournament but the Spain skipper Cortes came to his side's rescue. In the last 10 minutes, France were awarded a penalty stroke because of obstruction in front of the goal by a Spain defender after they went for video referral but Cortes made a brilliant save. .@rfe_hockey & @FF_Hockey showcased valiant effort on the turf which ended as a hard-fought 1-1 draw. Here are the best moments captured from the match. ALBUM: https://t.co/Gbh3FWXjUq#IndiaKaGame #HWC2018 #DilHockey #ESPvFRA pic.twitter.com/aMjLovdasP — Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) December 3, 2018 × Spain had lost 3-4 to Olympic champions Argentina in their tournament opener, while France suffered a 1-2 defeat against New Zealand. Spain will next play New Zealand in their final pool match on December 6, while France will be up against Argentina.

Hockey World Cup 2018: Spain hold France to 1-1 draw

Ambulance drivers stage protest against president Macron's reforms

French ambulance drivers gathered on Monday to join nationwide protests against President Macron's punishing fuel taxes and spiralling living costs, blaming a president who they see as detached from the everyday struggles of life outside the city.

The unrest began as a backlash against fuel tax hikes but has spread. It poses the most formidable challenge yet to Macron's presidency, with the escalating violence and depth of public anger against his economic reforms catching the 40-year-old leader off-guard and battling to regain control.

Macron ordered his prime minister on Sunday to hold talks with political leaders and demonstrators, as he sought a way out of nationwide protests after rioters turned central Paris into a battle zone.

Riot police on Saturday were overwhelmed as protesters ran amok in Paris's wealthiest neighbourhoods, torching dozens of cars, looting boutiques and smashing up luxury private homes and cafes in the worst disturbances the capital has seen since 1968.

The unrest began as a backlash against fuel tax hikes but has spread. It poses the most formidable challenge yet to Emmanuel Macron's presidency, with the escalating violence and depth of public anger against his economic reforms catching the 40-year-old leader off-guard and battling to regain control.

French ambulance drivers gathered on Monday to join nationwide protests against President Macron's punishing fuel taxes and spiralling living costs, blaming a president who they see as detached from the everyday struggles of life outside the city.

French ambulance drivers gathered on Monday to join nationwide protests against President Macron's punishing fuel taxes and spiralling living costs, blaming a president who they see as detached from the everyday struggles of life outside the city. The unrest began as a backlash against fuel tax hikes but has spread. It poses the most formidable challenge yet to Macron's presidency, with the escalating violence and depth of public anger against his economic reforms catching the 40-year-old leader off-guard and battling to regain control. Macron ordered his prime minister on Sunday to hold talks with political leaders and demonstrators, as he sought a way out of nationwide protests after rioters turned central Paris into a battle zone. Riot police on Saturday were overwhelmed as protesters ran amok in Paris's wealthiest neighbourhoods, torching dozens of cars, looting boutiques and smashing up luxury private homes and cafes in the worst disturbances the capital has seen since 1968. The unrest began as a backlash against fuel tax hikes but has spread. It poses the most formidable challenge yet to Emmanuel Macron's presidency, with the escalating violence and depth of public anger against his economic reforms catching the 40-year-old leader off-guard and battling to regain control.

Ambulance drivers in France join ongoing protest against President Macron's reforms

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning 2nd December, 2018

Cars burn at "yellow vest" protest in Paris

French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday convened a cabinet meeting for <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/france-mulls-state-of-emergency-after-paris-riots-wont-change-policy-180924">crisis talks</a> a day after Paris saw its worst unrest in a decade on Saturday.

Macron went earlier to the Arc de Triomphe on Sunday after one of France's most revered monuments was vandalised by rioters, with the government considering a state of emergency after the worst bout of unrest in years.

Masked, black-clad groups ran amok across central Paris on Saturday, torching cars and buildings, looting shops, smashing windows and fighting police in the worst unrest the capital has seen since 1968, posing the most formidable challenge to Macron's 18-month-old presidency, reported news agency AFP.

Disturbances also rocked several cities and towns and across France - from Charleville Mezieres in the northeast to Nantes in the west and Marseille in the south, the report added.

The rebellion erupted on November 17 as a backlash against Macron's fuel tax hikes.&nbsp;

It spread quickly via social media, with protesters blocking roads across France and impeding access to shopping malls, factories and some fuel depots.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday convened a cabinet meeting for crisis talks a day after Paris saw its worst unrest in a decade on Saturday. Macron went earlier to the Arc de Triomphe on Sunday after one of France's most revered monuments was vandalised by rioters, with the government considering a state of emergency after the worst bout of unrest in years.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday convened a cabinet meeting for crisis talks a day after Paris saw its worst unrest in a decade on Saturday. Macron went earlier to the Arc de Triomphe on Sunday after one of France's most revered monuments was vandalised by rioters, with the government considering a state of emergency after the worst bout of unrest in years. Masked, black-clad groups ran amok across central Paris on Saturday, torching cars and buildings, looting shops, smashing windows and fighting police in the worst unrest the capital has seen since 1968, posing the most formidable challenge to Macron's 18-month-old presidency, reported news agency AFP. Disturbances also rocked several cities and towns and across France - from Charleville Mezieres in the northeast to Nantes in the west and Marseille in the south, the report added. The rebellion erupted on November 17 as a backlash against Macron's fuel tax hikes. It spread quickly via social media, with protesters blocking roads across France and impeding access to shopping malls, factories and some fuel depots.

French President Macron begins crisis talks with ministers a day after 'Yellow Jacket' protest turned violent 

The French government will consider imposing a state of emergency to prevent a recurrence of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/french-police-clash-with-yellow-vest-protesters-in-paris-169-arrested-180785">France's worst riots</a> in years, but while it is open to dialogue it will not change course, its spokesman said on Sunday.

Masked, black-clad groups ran amok across central Paris on Saturday, torching cars and buildings, looting shops, smashing windows and fighting police in the worst unrest the capital has seen since 1968, posing the most formidable challenge Emmanuel Macron has faced in his 18-month-old presidency.

Disturbances also rocked several cities and towns and across France - from Charleville Mezieres in the northeast to Nantes in the west and Marseille in the south.

"We have to think about the measures that can be taken so that these incidents don't happen again," government spokeswoman Benjamin Griveaux told Europe 1 radio.

The popular rebellion erupted out of nowhere on Nov. 17 and has spread quickly via social media, with protesters blocking roads across France and impeding access to shopping malls, factories and some fuel depots.

The protests began as a backlash against Macron's fuel tax hikes, but have mined a vein of deep dissatisfaction felt towards the 40-year-old's liberal economic reforms, which many voters feel favour the wealthy and big business.

Authorities were caught off guard by Saturday's escalation in violence overshadowing the spontaneous protest movement, dubbed the "yellow vests" because many participants are wearing the fluorescent safety jackets kept in all cars in France.

In Paris, police said they had arrested more than 400 people while 133 were injured, including 23 members of the security forces. Police fired stun grenades, tear gas and water cannon at protesters at the top of the Champs-Elysees boulevard, at the Tuilleries Garden near the Louvre museum and other sites.

MACRON CHAIRS&nbsp;EMERGENCY MEET

Macron will hold an emergency meeting with the prime minister and interior minister later on Sunday to discuss the riots and how to begin dialogue with the "gilets jaunes" (yellow vests), who have no real structure or leadership.

When asked about imposing a state of emergency, Griveaux said it would be among the options considered on Sunday.

"It is out of the question that each weekend becomes a meeting or ritual for violence."

Griveaux urged the yellow vest movement to disassociate itself from the radical groups that had instigated the violence, organise itself and come to the negotiating table. However, he ruled out a change in government policy.

"We won't change course. It's the right direction. We are certain of that," he said.

Authorities said violent groups from the far right and far left as well as "thugs" from the suburbs had infiltrated the yellow vests movement in Paris on Saturday, though Interior Minister Christophe Castaner said most of those arrested were regular protesters who had been egged on by fringe groups.

Speaking on BFM TV late on Saturday, Castaner said the authorities had put all security measures in place to forestall disturbances, but that they had faced extremely violent, organised and determined groups.

He did however say the government had made a mistake in how it communicated its plans to move away from oil dependence, the policy which led to fuel tax hikes.

Paul Marra, a yellow vest activist in Marseille, told BFM TV that the government was to blame for the violence across the country. "We condemn what happened, but it was inevitable. The violence started from the top. The biggest thug is the state through its inaction."

The French government will consider imposing a state of emergency to prevent a recurrence of France's worst riots in years, but while it is open to dialogue it will not change course, its spokesman said on Sunday.

The French government will consider imposing a state of emergency to prevent a recurrence of France's worst riots in years, but while it is open to dialogue it will not change course, its spokesman said on Sunday. Masked, black-clad groups ran amok across central Paris on Saturday, torching cars and buildings, looting shops, smashing windows and fighting police in the worst unrest the capital has seen since 1968, posing the most formidable challenge Emmanuel Macron has faced in his 18-month-old presidency. Disturbances also rocked several cities and towns and across France - from Charleville Mezieres in the northeast to Nantes in the west and Marseille in the south. "We have to think about the measures that can be taken so that these incidents don't happen again," government spokeswoman Benjamin Griveaux told Europe 1 radio. The popular rebellion erupted out of nowhere on Nov. 17 and has spread quickly via social media, with protesters blocking roads across France and impeding access to shopping malls, factories and some fuel depots. The protests began as a backlash against Macron's fuel tax hikes, but have mined a vein of deep dissatisfaction felt towards the 40-year-old's liberal economic reforms, which many voters feel favour the wealthy and big business. Authorities were caught off guard by Saturday's escalation in violence overshadowing the spontaneous protest movement, dubbed the "yellow vests" because many participants are wearing the fluorescent safety jackets kept in all cars in France. In Paris, police said they had arrested more than 400 people while 133 were injured, including 23 members of the security forces. Police fired stun grenades, tear gas and water cannon at protesters at the top of the Champs-Elysees boulevard, at the Tuilleries Garden near the Louvre museum and other sites. MACRON CHAIRS EMERGENCY MEET Macron will hold an emergency meeting with the prime minister and interior minister later on Sunday to discuss the riots and how to begin dialogue with the "gilets jaunes" (yellow vests), who have no real structure or leadership. When asked about imposing a state of emergency, Griveaux said it would be among the options considered on Sunday. "It is out of the question that each weekend becomes a meeting or ritual for violence." Griveaux urged the yellow vest movement to disassociate itself from the radical groups that had instigated the violence, organise itself and come to the negotiating table. However, he ruled out a change in government policy. "We won't change course. It's the right direction. We are certain of that," he said. Authorities said violent groups from the far right and far left as well as "thugs" from the suburbs had infiltrated the yellow vests movement in Paris on Saturday, though Interior Minister Christophe Castaner said most of those arrested were regular protesters who had been egged on by fringe groups. Speaking on BFM TV late on Saturday, Castaner said the authorities had put all security measures in place to forestall disturbances, but that they had faced extremely violent, organised and determined groups. He did however say the government had made a mistake in how it communicated its plans to move away from oil dependence, the policy which led to fuel tax hikes. Paul Marra, a yellow vest activist in Marseille, told BFM TV that the government was to blame for the violence across the country. "We condemn what happened, but it was inevitable. The violence started from the top. The biggest thug is the state through its inaction."

France mulls state of emergency after Paris riots, won't change policy

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Zinedine+Zidane">Zinedine Zidane</a>'s son Enzo Fernandez believes the former Real Madrid coach will return to management soon.

Frenchman Zidane led Madrid to an unprecedented three consecutive Champions League titles (2016-18) as well as winning La Liga (2017) before surprisingly walking away in May.

Midfielder Enzo, on loan at Spain's Rayo Majadahonda from Swiss side Lausanne-Sport, said his father needed a rest after his Real exploits but will return to the dugout before long.

"We all know that my father loves football and loves to be a coach. For sure, he will be back soon. It's his decision," Enzo told Spanish newspaper AS.

"Now he is taking advantage to rest, which he needed, because in the end being at Madrid was nice but hard, with a lot of work."

Enzo played for Madrid's youth team while his father was at the club but left for Alaves in 2017 before moving to Lausanne-Sport in January.

Zidane, 46, played for Cannes, Girondins Bordeaux and Juventus before becoming one of the 'Galacticos' at Real where he won the Champions League in 2002 and La Liga the next year. He won the World Cup in 1998 and the Euros in 2000.

Zidane retired from playing in 2006 and later turned his hand to management with the Spanish club's 'B' side in 2014 before taking over the first team in January 2016.

Zinedine Zidane's son Enzo Fernandez believes the former Real Madrid coach will return to management soon. Frenchman Zidane led Madrid to an unprecedented three consecutive Champions League titles (2016-18) as well as winning La Liga (2017) before surprisingly walking away in May.

Zinedine Zidane's son Enzo Fernandez believes the former Real Madrid coach will return to management soon. Frenchman Zidane led Madrid to an unprecedented three consecutive Champions League titles (2016-18) as well as winning La Liga (2017) before surprisingly walking away in May. Midfielder Enzo, on loan at Spain's Rayo Majadahonda from Swiss side Lausanne-Sport, said his father needed a rest after his Real exploits but will return to the dugout before long. "We all know that my father loves football and loves to be a coach. For sure, he will be back soon. It's his decision," Enzo told Spanish newspaper AS. "Now he is taking advantage to rest, which he needed, because in the end being at Madrid was nice but hard, with a lot of work." Enzo played for Madrid's youth team while his father was at the club but left for Alaves in 2017 before moving to Lausanne-Sport in January. Zidane, 46, played for Cannes, Girondins Bordeaux and Juventus before becoming one of the 'Galacticos' at Real where he won the Champions League in 2002 and La Liga the next year. He won the World Cup in 1998 and the Euros in 2000. Zidane retired from playing in 2006 and later turned his hand to management with the Spanish club's 'B' side in 2014 before taking over the first team in January 2016.

Zinedine Zidane will be managing again soon, says son Enzo

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