France Prepares for Nationwide Strikes and Protests Over Budget and Living Costs

• Hundreds of thousands of protesters are expected to march in French cities on Thursday.
• The protests are a continuation of weeks-long unrest over the rising cost of living and stalled budget talks.
• Key sectors including hospital workers, air traffic control, rail staff, and teachers are expected to join the strikes.
• President Emmanuel Macron faces renewed challenges as the protests come five months before a presidential election.
• More than 220 demonstrations are expected to take place across the country.