WATCH smashed storefronts, burned buildings as Europe faces aftermath of latest violent protests

Clashes erupted in several major cities as unrest spread beyond France over the weekend Tens of thousands took to the streets of European cities over the weekend to protest rising living costs, housing shortages and government policies, with demonstrations escalating into violent clashes, looting and arson in several countries.

The unrest left smashed storefronts, damaged public buildings and burned-out vehicles in its wake.

France, where the protests first erupted, saw the most extensive destruction, while clashes also broke out in Belgium and Italy as a separate wave of anti-government demonstrations continued in Albania.

In Portugal, tens of thousands also demonstrated, although no comparable scale of violence or damage was reported.

Footage from across Europe showed smashed shop windows, looted stores, burning vehicles and fires near public buildings.

In Limoges, France, flames engulfed the historic town hall, while masked demonstrators in Milan hurled stones at riot police near the Gothic cathedral and set fire to street barricades.

In Brussels, protesters overturned a car, while in Tirana, demonstrators threw rocks and petrol bombs at police near the Education Ministry.

Riot police in several cities used tear gas and water cannons to disperse crowds.

The massive rallies reflect a range of national grievances rather than a coordinated movement.

In France, demonstrations took place in Marseille, Strasbourg, Nantes, Lyon and other cities. 🇧🇪 Protests have spread from France to Belgium, with masked protesters, smashed bus stops, fires, water cannons and clashes with riot police.

More than 100 people have reportedly been arrested over property damage and arson.

Follow: @europa pic.twitter.com/HSYWcgUdll — Europa.com (@europa) October 8, 2026 Initially sparked by poor school conditions and teacher shortages, the protests have broadened to include anger over living costs, inequality, public services and proposed spending cuts.

Authorities put Saturday’s nationwide turnout at 550,000, while organizers estimated 800,000. 🚨 ALERTE Des manifestants ont pris possession d’un TRAIN TOURISTIQUE à GRENOBLE !! pic.twitter.com/WfwvixHZpW — Kultur (@Kulturlesite_) October 17, 2026 In Belgium, student groups opposed to rising education costs and reforms they say could limit access to higher education.

In Italy, marches against living costs and wars began peacefully before groups broke away and clashed with police in Milan and Bologna.