CGT estimates over half a million joined protests across France

More than 500,000 people joined protests against high living costs across France on October 17, the CGT union estimated, according to BFMTV.

Participants included school and university students, Yellow Vest supporters and climate activists. The union's estimate covers the whole country.

In Paris, clashes began before the march left Place de la Republique. RIA Novosti's correspondent reported that groups of young people threw bottles, stones and firecrackers at police, who used tear gas, stun grenades and water cannon.