France is entering a new phase of costly restrictions on COVID-19, even as protests against the blockade erupted across Europe.
On Friday night, residents of Paris and northern France must obtain permission to walk more than 6 miles from home; non-essential stores are closed; and traveling between regions is prohibited “without a compelling reason,” according to reports.
“The situation is deteriorating,” said Prime Minister Jean Castex, referring to the increase in COVID-19 infection rates.
But the French government backed down on more restrictive measures offered on Thursday, perhaps in response to growing outrage over the blockades in Europe.
Austria, England, Germany, Finland, Romania and Switzerland have all witnessed protests in recent days.
Kassel, Germany, saw 20,000 people protesting on Saturday, while 1,800 police were waiting for a potential protest in Berlin, the Associated Press reported. Up to 10,000 people protested and 13 were arrested in London on Saturday, according to Reuters.