Cyprus Times

Farmers' Protest Outside European Parliament Turns Violent: Fires, Tear Gas, and Clashes (video)

Published January 20, 2026, 19:14
Farmers' Protest Outside European Parliament Turns Violent: Fires, Tear Gas, and Clashes (video)

A protest by farmers outside the European Parliament in Strasbourg turned violent, with fires, tear gas, and clashes with police. The farmers, from France, Italy, Belgium, and Poland, protested against the EU's agreement with Mercosur, which they considered harmful to the European agricultural sector. The demonstration took place on the eve of a vote on whether to take legal action regarding the agreement. Farmers threw bottles and fruit at police forces, who responded with tear gas. Estimates suggest around 5,500 people participated in the protest. The main target of the protest was the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, who signed the Mercosur agreement. Farmers expressed their disappointment with the lack of support from the EU and stressed that the agreement jeopardizes consumer health and the sustainability of European agriculture. Copa-Cogeca, the organization representing the main agricultural trade unions, stated that the European Commission had abandoned farmers. The protesters emphasized the need for an agricultural sector that produces in Europe and ensures the quality and safety of food.