Widespread Vandalism Cripples France's High-Speed Rail Ahead of Olympics

France's high-speed rail network faced severe disruptions on Friday due to acts of vandalism, including arson attacks. The incidents, described as 'criminal' by authorities, paralyzed travel to Paris just hours before the opening ceremony of the Olympics. An investigation has been launched, and the incidents affected hundreds of thousands of passengers.

France's high-speed rail network was severely disrupted Friday following widespread and “criminal” acts of vandalism, including arson attacks, which paralyzed travel to Paris just hours before the grand opening ceremony of the Olympics.

Officials denounced the attacks as “criminal actions,” and Paris prosecutors have launched a national investigation. The alleged crimes could result in sentences of 15 to 20 years.

In preparation for a grand parade along the Seine River, three fires were reported near the high-speed rail lines, causing significant disruptions for hundreds of thousands of travelers, including two German athletes who will miss the ceremony.