Clashes erupted in London on Saturday during one of the largest far-right protests in British history. Police said 25 people were arrested after violent scenes at the rally organized by activist Tommy Robinson.
The “Unite the Kingdom” event drew an estimated 110,000 to 150,000 supporters, far more than organisers predicted. Demonstrators marched over Westminster Bridge before gathering near Downing Street, where speeches came from far-right figures across Europe and North America. French politician Eric Zemmour repeated the “Great Replacement” conspiracy theory, while Petr Bystron of Germany’s AfD also addressed the crowd. Elon Musk, joining via video link, accused the political left of promoting violence.
Tensions flared when protesters tried to breach police cordons near counter-demonstrators. Around 5,000 people joined an anti-racism march elsewhere in the city. Police reported 26 injured officers, including four seriously hurt. Offences included violent disorder and assault.
Assistant Commissioner Matt Twist said while many exercised their right to protest, others arrived determined to cause violence. Interior Minister Shabana Mahmood condemned the attacks on police.
Anti-racism charity Hope Not Hate called it the largest far-right rally ever in Britain. Observers said the event highlighted growing divisions over immigration and asylum in the UK.
