Riot police in Brussels deployed water cannon and tear gas against hundreds of protesters during a significant European Union summit on Thursday, resulting in multiple arrests as tensions escalated in the Belgian capital.
The demonstration, which saw participants rallying against international policies, turned confrontational near the city's European Union district. Police in full riot gear formed cordons to contain the situation as projectiles were thrown by some protesters.
Police Response and Security Measures
Authorities responded with significant force, using water cannon to disperse crowds and tear gas to break up concentrated groups of demonstrators. The Brussels police department confirmed that several individuals were taken into custody following the clashes.
The protest occurred while EU leaders were gathered nearby for discussions on key policy matters, though it remains unclear if the summit proceedings were directly affected by the unrest.
Transport Disruption and Public Impact
The confrontation caused considerable disruption to public transport in the area, with several tram and bus routes being temporarily suspended or rerouted to avoid the protest zone. Commuters were advised to seek alternative routes through the city centre.
Local businesses in the vicinity reported closing early as a precautionary measure, while pedestrians were directed away from the security perimeter established around EU institutions.
This incident marks the latest in a series of demonstrations that have tested Brussels' security apparatus during high-profile international meetings. Police officials indicated that their response was proportionate to maintain public order and protect both protesters and residents.
