Germany’s Gen Z Protests Turn Violent as Riots and Looting Erupt in Major Cities

Thousands of young people protested in more than 30 German cities on Saturday over rising living costs, underfunded schools, public spending cuts and the possible return of compulsory military service. The demonstrations, organised by Gen Z regelt, were largely peaceful during the day but turned violent at night in Frankfurt, Hamburg, Cologne and Leipzig, where police used water cannons and pepper spray. In Frankfurt, masked rioters looted stores and threw Molotov cocktails, fireworks and stones at police; around 30 people were taken into custody. Spokesperson Lina Friedrich said the movement stood for peace and freedom and wanted better support for health and education systems.