Climate activist Greta Thunberg was physically detained by Slovakian police on Monday during a peaceful demonstration against her government's continued investment in fossil fuel infrastructure.
The 21-year-old environmental campaigner was participating in a protest outside the Ministry of Economy in Bratislava when officers intervened to remove demonstrators blocking the building's entrance.
'A Moral Disaster'
Speaking to reporters before her detention, Thunberg condemned what she called "a moral disaster" - referring to Slovakia's ongoing financial support for fossil fuel companies despite climate commitments.
"When you are in a crisis, you don't invest in the thing that created the crisis," Thunberg stated, her voice rising with emotion. "You don't pour more fuel on the fire."
Escalating Tensions
The protest saw Thunberg and fellow activists from the Renew Europe political group sitting cross-legged in front of ministry doors, effectively blocking access to the government building.
Video footage shows police officers carefully lifting Thunberg by her arms and carrying her away from the protest site. The activist remained peaceful throughout the procedure, though her expression showed clear determination.
International Attention
This incident marks the latest in a series of high-profile climate protests that have seen Thunberg detained by authorities in multiple countries. Each event has drawn significant media coverage and public debate about the boundaries of peaceful protest.
The Slovakian demonstration comes amid growing tension between climate activists and European governments over the pace of transition away from fossil fuels.
Police confirmed Thunberg was released without charge after being removed from the immediate protest area. The Ministry of Economy has yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident or the activists' demands.
