[cgbg]

Prime Minister Dominique de Villepin has failed to offer a clear path out of the crisis

The French don't need to "offer a clear path". They need to declare that they are facing an insurrection, declare martial law, place offenders in military prison with no trial for the duration of the insurrection, and start using real bullets in their weapons with shoot to kill instructions to police.

I think the "clear path" Reuters had in mind is something like negotiation and concessions.

;-)

[Caipirabob]

The French don't need to "offer a clear path". They need to declare that they are facing an insurrection, declare martial law, place offenders in military prison with no trial for the duration of the insurrection, and start using real bullets in their weapons with shoot to kill instructions to police.

Sadly, your commentary makes good sense, which is anathema to the French and contrary to the plans of the local Socialists, Communists and muzzies.