Attack on France's high-speed train network ahead of the Olympics | DW News

French train operator SNCF has reported acts of intentional vandalism on several high-speed rail routes. The incidents, which have led to disruption, come immediately ahead of the opening of the 2024 Paris Olympics.

What we know so far
"This is a massive attack on a large scale to paralyze the TGV network," SNCF told the AFP news agency. The operator added that many routes would have to be canceled and the situation would last "at least all weekend while repairs are conducted." By mid-morning, the company said some 800,000 passengers were affected. Traffic on the high-speed line between Lille and Paris has been cut off since 5:15 a.m. after "a malicious act in the Arras area," according to SNCF. On the route between Paris and eastern France, the company said vandalism between Metz and Nancy was seriously disrupting traffic. Traffic was also cut on the Atlantic line after "an act of vandalism near Courtalain," where the tracks divide for Brittany and Nouvelle-Aquitaine. "Deliberate fires were started to damage our installations. SNCF network teams are already on site to carry out the diagnosis and begin repairs," the broadcaster BFMTV reported SNCF as saying. According to the channel, there were also thwarted sabotage attempts on the southeastern line from Paris.