Anti-G7 protest in Geneva turns violent, with vandalism and clashes

Geneva became the scene of significant unrest as thousands of demonstrators gathered for an anti-G7 protest, which escalated into clashes with police and widespread vandalism. The demonstration, held as the G7 summit is set to begin in the nearby French town of Évian, saw participants targeting commercial establishments and clashing with law enforcement. Police had heavily secured the planned protest route to prevent demonstrators from reaching Geneva's main commercial streets, which had been boarded up in anticipation of trouble. The city still remembers the violent anti-G8 protests of 2003, which also occurred in Évian and resulted in considerable property damage. Organizers claimed 60,000 people attended the march, while police estimated the number at around 20,000. Many participants, predominantly young men, concealed their faces and formed groups that attacked businesses as they advanced. Among the most affected establishments was a Tesla electric vehicle store, which was set ablaze. Banks and well-known retail stores also suffered damage, with protesters tearing down protective wooden panels. Groups of violent demonstrators attempted to break through police cordons at various points, prompting police to respond with tear gas and high-pressure water cannons. The police actions also affected peaceful protesters and civilian marshals. This was the only protest permitted against the G7 meeting, as France had refused to authorize any demonstrations on its territory, particularly in the vicinity of the summit location. The three-day summit is being held under a heavy security presence.