Berlin's bustling Autobahn came to an abrupt halt on Wednesday as a group of determined climate activists staged a dramatic protest, gluing themselves to the tarmac and bringing traffic to a standstill.
The demonstrators, affiliated with the environmental group Letzte Generation (Last Generation), blocked the key A100 ring road during morning rush hour near the famous Victory Column monument. Their bold action forced police to close sections of Germany's most vital transport artery for several hours.
Activists Demand Fossil Fuel Phase-Out
Protesters carried banners reading "The fossil fuel age is over" as they demanded immediate government action to combat climate change. The group specifically called for Germany to abandon all fossil fuel subsidies by 2025.
"We're taking this drastic action because our politicians continue to fail us," said spokesperson Miriam Kremer. "While they debate, the climate crisis accelerates. We need emergency measures now."
Police Response and Public Reaction
Berlin police removed activists one by one using special solvents to unstick them from the road surface. Authorities reported at least 14 arrests for trespassing and obstruction.
The protest sparked mixed reactions from commuters. While some expressed sympathy for the climate cause, others voiced frustration at the disruption. "I support their message," said stranded motorist Thomas Weber, "but this isn't the way to win public support."
Growing Trend of Climate Protests
This latest action follows a series of high-profile climate protests across Europe, including similar road blockades in London and Rome. Experts suggest such demonstrations are becoming more frequent as environmental groups adopt increasingly confrontational tactics.
Transport officials estimate the blockade caused traffic delays across central Berlin, with knock-on effects lasting throughout the day. The A100 typically carries over 200,000 vehicles daily.
