France is sending 70,000 police officers out across the country for a fresh wave of protests this weekend. The government announced the deployment on Friday after days of urban violence had shaken several cities. Officials fear the new demonstrations could bring another round of riots and property destruction. The plan spreads officers across towns nationwide rather than concentrating them in Paris. The figure stands out even by French standards, where large mobilisations are common. Authorities stopped short of detailing specific tactics or naming places seen as likely flashpoints. Their stated priority is protecting lives while preventing a repeat of the recent unrest. The weekend will show whether the sheer weight of numbers can hold the streets.