Oct 18, Kathmandu - Clashes broke out between protesters and police in Brussels and Liège on Saturday, as demonstrations over rising living costs intensified across Europe, Euronews reported.

Police used water cannons against protesters, who were seen throwing water bottles and other objects at security forces.

Belgian Interior Minister Bernard Quintin described the unrest as “pure violence” repeatedly and deliberately aimed at destabilising society. In a post on X, he said the situation in Brussels had gone beyond an ordinary protest and that federal police were assisting local officers. He added that authorities would take all necessary measures to restore public order and detain those responsible for the disorder.

In France, protests that began over school conditions and alleged education budget cuts have broadened to include opposition to rising fuel prices and the cost of living. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez told France 24 that 550,000 people took part in demonstrations over declining purchasing power, including 110,000 in Paris. He said police arrested 400 people suspected of vandalism.

President Emmanuel Macron condemned violence during the student-led protests. In a post on X, he pledged action against those involved in vandalism and looting and called for unity against those spreading disorder.

French media reported that some former leaders of the Yellow Vest movement were preparing to join demonstrations in support of high school students. The movement, which began in France in 2018, brought thousands onto the streets over fuel prices and economic inequality. During the protests, rubber-bullet injuries were reported among more than 2,500 demonstrators and 1,800 police officers.

Meanwhile, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni strongly condemned violent demonstrations in major cities across Italy. Protests organised by the “Italy in the Square” committee escalated into serious clashes, numerous arrests and damage to public and private property, Italian broadcaster Rai News reported.