Limoges town hall torched as unrest spreads across France with up to 2,000 people arrested

Protests sweeping France have turned destructive in several cities. Buildings have been set on fire, shops have been looted and police have clashed with violent crowds.

Fire in Limoges

Some of the worst damage came in Limoges. An arson attack left the city's historic town hall badly damaged.

The damage is not limited to one city. Paris, Lyon and Marseille have been hit as well while the turmoil grows. Video and photos show smoke filling the streets while flames spread through buildings. Debris is scattered across roads and public property has been wrecked.

Mass arrests

Authorities say as many as 2,000 people have been arrested. Officers are working to stop the violence and bring back order.

The anger behind the protests centers on the cost of living. Demonstrators are also upset about public services and government policies.

Many people have marched peacefully. Violent groups have still set property ablaze in parts of the country. That has left neighborhoods to clean up the damage.

Trump weighs in

President Donald Trump commented on Truth Social on Sunday. "France is burning!" he wrote. He blamed immigration for the turmoil and urged French leaders to shut their borders.

French officials see it differently. They blame frustrations inside the country. Officials also point at looters and extremist fringes while they try to restore calm.

The fires, wrecked buildings and battles with police have pushed France into a serious public-order crisis.