France's high-speed TGV network has been targeted by acts of vandalism, disrupting travel just before the Paris Olympics opening ceremony. The French railway company SNCF reported "malicious acts" aimed at paralyzing the network.
SNCF urged travelers to postpone their journeys, as repairs were underway but significant disruptions would continue through the weekend. Trains were sent back to their departure points. Fires were deliberately set on the Atlantic, Northern, and Eastern high-speed lines to damage installations, according to SNCF.
France's Prime Minister Gabriel Attal stated that intelligence services and law enforcement are mobilized to find and punish the vandals. He described the impact on the rail network as "massive and serious." These acts of sabotage were coordinated and prepared, he said.
Affected lines include those in the west, north, and east of France, as well as trains to Belgium and London. Government officials denounced the incidents, emphasizing the security efforts for the Olympics, which include deploying over 45,000 police, 10,000 soldiers, and 2,000 private security agents. Snipers and drones are also being used for surveillance.
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Transport Minister Patrice Vergriete called the acts criminal, and the Paris Police chief increased security at main stations. Sports Minister Amelie Oudea-Castera condemned the vandalism. Despite the disruptions, travelers like Corinne Lecocq, whose train to Strasbourg was canceled, are adapting to the situation, although delays are frustrating.
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