US President Donald Trump has linked recent unrest in France to immigration, as the country faces widespread protests that began over education, rising living costs and concerns about public services before escalating into violent clashes, looting and damage to public buildings over the weekend.
Speaking to reporters on Monday (19 Oct), Trump said he had repeatedly warned French President Emmanuel Macron to strengthen France’s borders, claiming: “Close up your borders. You’re going to have nothing but trouble.”
He argued that immigration was the central issue behind France’s difficulties, stating: “It’s immigration. Not schools, not anything,” while criticising what he described as a failure to control migration.
The comments came after protests that began over concerns including rising costs and underfunded public services escalated into violent unrest, with authorities responding with increased policing and localised curfews in several areas.
The French government has faced pressure over its handling of the crisis, with President Emmanuel Macron rejecting the resignation offer of Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez following criticism of security measures.
The unrest has also intensified political debate ahead of France’s 2027 presidential election, with questions remaining over how the government will address public dissatisfaction, economic pressures and social tensions.
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