The tensions broke out close to the place de la Republique square in the east of Paris, where thousands had massed to protest planned pension reforms. The union organised march through Paris was a show of solidarity as thousands of public sector workers want on strike, bringing France to a virtual standstill. Union marches in France are not generally violent, but police had feared disorder every since 'yellow vest' groups announced they would be marching alongside the strikers in sympathy. Recent 'yellow vest' demos, especially in Paris, have frequently ended in ugly scenes as casseurs (hooligans or vandals) or anarchist Black Bloc militants hijack the demos intent on causing trouble. — John Lichfield (@john_lichfield) December 5, 2019The 'yellow vest' anniversary in Paris in November saw a group of about 200 masked black-clad youths smashing up the Place d'Italie.

Source: The Local December 05, 2019 13:52 UTC