US Issues Security Alert For Americans In France

The U.S. State Department issued a new security alert for Americans in France, warning of the “possibility of violent clashes” amid protests.

“Strikes and protests are taking place across France. Public transport is significantly impacted, especially in the Paris metro area, and some schools are closed. Drivers may be impacted by road blockages, and there may be disruptions of other means of transportation—including flights, trains, and taxi services,” the alert posted to X and the department’s website said.

“The possibility of violent clashes between protestors and French security and law enforcement remains high. Avoid the areas of the demonstrations.”

Why It Matters

The U.S. State Department often issues travel alerts for high-risk parts of the world, intended as a warning to American citizens either not to travel or exercise caution in doing so. Such warnings for France specifically are not uncommon, with the country often experiencing unrest due to protests or strike action.

What To Know

The warning from the State Department and the U.S. Embassy in France came amid a day of strikes and protests taking place across the European country on Thursday, with hundreds of thousands of participants expected.

In an update on the embassy website, U.S. officials said “the possibility of violent clashes between protestors and French security and law enforcement remains high”.

Americans were told to avoid demonstration areas, exercise caution in areas where protests and strikes were taking place, and keep an eye on updates from local officials and media.

The prediction of law enforcement clashing with protestors did appear to come true, as voters made their voices heard over concerns about planned cuts under President Emmanuel Macron.

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