French cities calm overnight as prime minister weighs targeted curfews across Europe

Curfews and overnight calm

Sébastien Lecornu said targeted curfews in parts of Paris and other major cities had contributed to calm overnight. He suggested additional curfews could be brought in if necessary.

Restrictions differed across the country. Some Paris measures initially covered Monday night into Tuesday, while curfews in Bordeaux and Nice were expected to remain for several days. A helicopter swept a searchlight over Place de la République in Paris, described as one of the unrest’s focal points. AFP reported the flight as a sign of stepped-up security.

Arrest after Limoges fire

A 40-year-old man was arrested on Tuesday on suspicion of involvement in the arson attack that damaged Limoges town hall over the weekend, French media reported. Le Figaro described the man as a “far-left activist” and reported that he had a prior record and was on the security services’ watchlist.

Troops headed to Milan

Italy’s government decided to send 500 army troops to Milan following two days of unrest. Shops in the city centre were affected by riots and looting.

Other European meetings planned

The European parliament in Strasbourg was due to debate EU-UK relations. Nato’s Mark Rutte was set to host Turkey’s foreign minister for talks. Lithuanian president Gitanas Nausėda was in Poland to discuss regional security.