In a brazen act of environmental protest that has sparked nationwide outrage, two Just Stop Oil activists have targeted one of Britain's most treasured historical sites. The ancient stones of Stonehenge were dramatically sprayed with orange powder paint on Wednesday, just one day before the summer solstice celebrations.
The Stonehenge Assault
The protest occurred around noon when the two campaigners ran toward the 5,000-year-old monument with canisters of orange cornflour. Video footage rapidly circulated online showing the bright orange powder being discharged against the iconic standing stones, creating a stark visual contrast against the Wiltshire landscape.
Wiltshire Police confirmed they had arrested two individuals on suspicion of damaging the ancient monument. A police spokesperson stated: "We responded to a report that orange paint had been sprayed on some of the stones by two suspects. Our officers attended and arrested two people on suspicion of damaging the ancient monument."
Just Stop Oil's Demands
The environmental group immediately claimed responsibility for the action, declaring it a demand for the next UK government to commit to legally binding measures against fossil fuels. The protesters specifically called for:
- A comprehensive plan to end extraction and burning of oil, gas, and coal by 2030
- Legal commitment to ensure the UK's future energy security
- Immediate action from all political parties ahead of the general election
One of the activists involved, a 21-year-old student from Oxford, stated: "Either we end the fossil fuel era, or the fossil fuel era will end us."
Heritage England's Response
English Heritage, which manages the UNESCO World Heritage Site, confirmed that experts were assessing the extent of the damage. Fortunately, initial examinations suggest the orange powder hasn't caused permanent harm to the ancient stones, though thorough cleaning and conservation work will be required.
The timing of the protest is particularly significant, occurring just before thousands were expected to gather at Stonehenge for the summer solstice celebrations. English Heritage has assured the public that the solstice events will proceed as planned, though additional security measures have been implemented.
Growing Pattern of Cultural Protests
This incident represents the latest in a series of high-profile cultural interventions by environmental groups. Just Stop Oil has previously targeted artworks in major galleries and disrupted sporting events, but this marks one of their most audacious attacks on Britain's cultural heritage.
The protest has ignited fierce debate about the boundaries of climate activism, with many condemning the damage to ancient monuments while others argue that desperate times call for desperate measures in the face of climate catastrophe.
