France unrest: 550,000 protesters, 2,000 arrests as Putin’s spokesperson warns of a European crisis

France’s unrest is drawing international attention as reports of mass protests and arrests fuel debate over Europe’s economic and political stability. Russian presidential spokesperson Dmitry Peskov has described the protests gripping Europe as a major crisis, adding a Kremlin perspective to the growing tensions. With French President Emmanuel Macron facing criticism over the government’s response, the demonstrations have highlighted public anger over economic pressures, living costs and political decisions. Moscow’s comments also raise questions about how Russia views Europe’s internal challenges as several European governments continue supporting Ukraine. What do the protests reveal about the pressures facing France and the wider continent?