Far-right protest in London draws massive crowd, sparks clashes
More than 100,000 people gathered in central London Saturday for a far-right demonstration branded “Unite the Kingdom."
(NBC)- More than 100,000 people gathered in central London Saturday for a far-right demonstration branded “Unite the Kingdom,” with organizers calling for tighter border controls and freedom of speech.
While largely peaceful at first, parts of the rally turned violent as protesters clashed with police. Authorities confirmed 25 arrests were made during the unrest.
The demonstration was spearheaded by far-right activist Tommy Robinson, who has previously served jail time. Addressing the crowds, Robinson celebrated the turnout, declaring, “Look at these crowds, man!”
The protest drew international attention after tech billionaire Elon Musk expressed support, warning of what he called the “destruction of Britain” due to what he described as uncontrolled migration.
Several thousand counter-protesters also marched, chanting anti-fascist slogans such as “We are women, we can fight. We don’t need the fascist right.” Their numbers, however, were far smaller compared to the nationalist gathering.
The massive turnout underscores the far-right’s growing influence across Europe, as movements fueled by immigration concerns continue to gain traction.
More than 100,000 people gathered in central London Saturday for a far-right demonstration branded “Unite the Kingdom,” with organizers calling for tighter border controls and freedom of speech.
While largely peaceful at first, parts of the rally turned violent as protesters clashed with police. Authorities confirmed 25 arrests were made during the unrest.
The demonstration was spearheaded by far-right activist Tommy Robinson, who has previously served jail time. Addressing the crowds, Robinson celebrated the turnout, declaring, “Look at these crowds, man!”
The protest drew international attention after tech billionaire Elon Musk expressed support, warning of what he called the “destruction of Britain” due to what he described as uncontrolled migration.
Several thousand counter-protesters also marched, chanting anti-fascist slogans such as “We are women, we can fight. We don’t need the fascist right.” Their numbers, however, were far smaller compared to the nationalist gathering.
The massive turnout underscores the far-right’s growing influence across Europe, as movements fueled by immigration concerns continue to gain traction.
