GENEVA: Tensions Escalate During Protests Against G7 Summit
On Sunday, protesters in Geneva clashed with police as they voiced their opposition to the upcoming G7 summit in nearby Evian, France. Demonstrators threw stones and firecrackers, prompting authorities to respond with tear gas and water cannons.
Thousands gathered in the Swiss city to protest the meeting of world leaders set to take place starting Monday. As clashes continued, French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Evian to prepare for the summit. He will host leaders from the Group of Seven nations: Britain, Canada, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the United States, along with leaders from Brazil and India.
This three-day summit marks one of the first major international gatherings since a conflict involving the U.S. and Israel against Iran intensified in late February, creating heightened tensions in the Middle East.
Leaders will address a packed agenda, with pressing topics like efforts to resolve the ongoing war in Iran and U.S. President Donald Trump’s uncertain promises of a potential deal. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is also expected to attend, drawing attention to the war that began after Russia’s invasion over four years ago.
Most leaders will arrive at Geneva Airport before heading to Evian. The city of Geneva has been on high alert for weeks, with local authorities keen to avoid a repeat of violent protests from 2003, when anti-G8 activists caused extensive damage. To mitigate risks, a permitted protest march was organized well away from the city center and its upscale shops. However, despite the precautions, some areas still suffered damage during the tumultuous events of the day.
