Brussels protests against austerity measures turn violent

Approximately 30,000 people gathered in Brussels to protest government austerity measures proposed by Prime Minister Bart De Wever. The demonstrations, organized by major unions, aim to oppose a budget plan designed to address a 33 billion euro deficit by generating 10 billion euros in savings by 2029.

While the main union march was reported as peaceful, clashes broke out near the Brussels-South and Brussels-Central stations. Protesters, including a group of approximately 2,000 youths, reportedly threw objects and fireworks at police, and set fire to bicycles, scooters, and trash bins. Law enforcement responded with water cannons and tear gas, supported by a helicopter.

Authorities reported that 110 individuals were detained, consisting of 30 judicial arrests and 80 administrative detentions, many of whom are minors. The unrest resulted in damage to public property, including buses and banks, and several police officers were injured. Interior Minister Bernard Quintin stated that those responsible for damaging public property and clashing with police would face legal consequences.