France's Fiery Protests Challenge New Prime Minister Amid Instability

In a fiery display of dissent, protesters in France took to the streets on Wednesday, blocking roads and setting fires, intensifying pressure on President Emmanuel Macron and challenging his newly appointed Prime Minister, Sébastien Lecornu. The nationwide demonstrations resulted in 250 arrests as protestors voiced discontent with budget cuts and other grievances.

The 'Block Everything' movement, which rose to prominence online, managed to cause widespread disruption despite a heavy police presence. Demonstrations were less intense than previous unrest but were spread across major cities, heightening a sense of crisis as the country grapples with political instability.

With Lecornu tasked to address budget difficulties amid a shaky government, the protests underscore ongoing frustrations with Macron's leadership, drawing comparisons to the yellow vest movement and reflecting broader concerns over economic inequality and government policies.

(With inputs from agencies.)