French authorities have expressed relief after recent protests over rising living costs resulted in less violence than previous weekends. High schools at the heart of the movement reopen Monday after their autumn break. Germany faced challenges after nationwide protests Saturday ended with rioters attacking police and looting stores in some cities. Around Europe, hundreds of thousands held marches Saturday inspired by young people that were overwhelmingly peaceful despite scattered unrest. In Paris, rioters targeted police with Molotov cocktails at the end of Saturday’s march on the city’s eastern edge, injuring three officers and setting a car ablaze.

Emmanuel Macron, a centrist, is in the final stretch of his presidency as France faces intense protests. Macron has acknowledged failures in planning and intelligence. Constitutionally barred from a third term, his popularity is at its lowest since taking office in 2017. Far-right leader Marine Le Pen is seen as the favorite in next year's election, capitalizing on the unrest. Far-left contender Jean-Luc Mélenchon backs the protest movement while condemning looting. Polls show Le Pen as the front-runner, with Mélenchon in second.

Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni has announced new security measures in response to violent protests in Milan after weekend riots caused significant damage to the city’s central shopping district. The government will deploy 500 additional soldiers to Milan through the end of the year. Parents will be required to pay for damage caused by minors, and the measures will make it easier to prosecute minors over 14. The decree also creates a criminal offense for violent participation in demonstrations, punishable by up to five years in prison and a fine. The measures take effect immediately but must be converted into law by parliament within 60 days.