Youth protests across Germany see evening clashes

Thousands joined Gen Z-led demonstrations across Germany over living costs, education, military policy and other concerns. Most protests were peaceful during the day, but clashes, property damage and police use of water cannon and pepper spray were reported in several cities later.

• Demonstrators gathered in dozens of German cities, including Berlin, Frankfurt, Cologne and Hamburg; estimates varied by city and source.· 2 sources
• Protesters raised concerns about living costs, the state of schools and education spending, government priorities, and increased military spending or possible compulsory service.· 2 sources
• Reports described mostly peaceful demonstrations during the day, followed by disturbances in several cities. In Frankfurt, reports included looting and attacks on police; clashes and arrests were also reported in Cologne and Berlin.· 2 sources
• Police used water cannon and pepper spray in some locations. Hesse’s interior minister attributed Frankfurt violence to about 100 people he described as left-wing extremists.· 2 sources
• The movement said it rejected violence. Organisers’ turnout expectations were not met, though the supplied accounts give differing attendance figures and estimates.· 2 sources