Place de la Concorde closed in Paris due to 'Yellow Vests' protest

Members of the "Yellow Vests" movement and students held an unauthorized protest in the French capital, Paris. Police cordoned off Place de la Concorde due to the rally, restricting the protesters' movements.

Operativ Media reports that the demonstration took place near the Élysée Palace and the lower house of the French parliament.

Protesters stated that they would not leave the square until 7:00 p.m. local time. They demanded the protection of the right to protest, a reduction in funding for security services to be redirected toward education, healthcare, and social needs, as well as higher taxes on wealthy individuals and large corporations.

Police stated that the rally was not sanctioned by the Paris police prefecture. It was noted that participants in the demonstration would be subject to a fine of 135 euros.

Meanwhile, an authorized rally organized by trade unions and student organizations took place at Place de la République. The march, which brought together several thousand participants, proceeded toward Place de la Nation.