From France to Italy: Looting, vandalism prevails across Europe as rising cost of living stirs unrest

Europe is witnessing a wave of protests as thousands take to the streets over rising living costs, poor public services and the growing housing crisis, with demonstrations turning violent in parts of France and Italy, leading to widespread vandalism, looting and hundreds of arrests. Over the weekend, masked demonstrators descended into violence as they looted shops, set fires and targeted public buildings, luxury stores and supermarkets, while attacking police officers and vehicles across France and Italy. Belgium and Portugal also witnessed smaller protests on Saturday. In Albania, demonstrators took to the streets over alleged government corruption, job shortages, and poor…