On 11 December 2020, the U.S. Embassy in Paris issued a Demonstration Alert regarding planned protests on 12 December, which reads in part as follows: “Location: Paris: Chatelet-les Halles to Place de la Republique.
“Event: Potentially violent demonstration expected to take place on Saturday, December 12 beginning at 2:00 p.m. The groups include Stop Islamaphobie, Marche des libertes, and Paris Peuple Révolté. Additional groups known to initiate clashes with police and foment violent disturbances also plan to participate. In case of violence or property damage, French authorities may use chemical agents and water cannons to disperse crowds.
“Additional demonstrations are expected in:
- Strasbourg, Place de la Republique at 12:30 p.m. Public disturbances are expected.
- Lyon, Place Lyautey at 2:00 p.m. Public disturbances are possible.
- Marseille, Vieux Port at 2:00 p.m.
- Additional demonstrations in other major cities in France may also be planned.”
