A series of concerted sabotage strikes targeted France's TGV high-speed train network early Friday morning, causing substantial disruptions soon before the Paris Olympics opening ceremony. Vandals targeted signal boxes on major train lines connecting Paris to Lille, Bordeaux, and Strasbourg, but a planned attack on the Paris-Marseille route was foiled. The disruption stranded hundreds of thousands of commuters at stations, and no one immediately claimed responsibility, though initial suspicions led to radical leftist militants or environmental activists.
Referring to the incidents as "criminal acts," Transport Minister Patrice Vergriete emphasized the seriousness of the situation. Concerns have been raised by the attacks as the city gets ready for the opening ceremony of the Olympics, which is expected to gather over 300,000 people to the Seine River. Tens of thousands of police and military personnel are involved in an extraordinary security operation in response to the magnificent show, which is set to be broadcast to a worldwide audience.
The French state-owned railway operator, SNCF, reported that explosive devices damaged signal equipment on multiple high-speed lines, resulting in fires and major disruptions. The attacks affected around 800,000 people and are expected to cause significant travel disruptions over the weekend. Repair work is begun, but train services are being rerouted and rescheduled, putting many people in limbo.
Valerie Pecresse, head of the Paris area, believes the assaults were an attempt to destabilize France. While Paris is highly guarded with 45,000 police, 10,000 troops, and 2,000 private security agents for the opening ceremony, security in other parts of the country is more relaxed. The suspension of rail services hinders travel to Paris for the Games, which affects both teams and tourists.
The Paris police chief has increased security at major stations to manage the chaos. Travelers at Gare de L'Est, where trains to Strasbourg were canceled, expressed frustration but also understanding. Some, like Corinne Lecocq, planned to use slower trains to reach their destinations, while others, such as Xavier Hiegel, lamented the impact on the Olympics and hoped those responsible would be found and held accountable.
