Protests Loom as Trump Gathers with World Leaders
GENEVA – On Sunday night, President Trump greeted UFC fighters on the White House lawn, but the real action might unfold in Geneva, where around 50,000 demonstrators are expected to protest the upcoming Group of Seven summit.
The city took precautions on Sunday, effectively shutting down businesses. Many storefronts were boarded up, and chain-link fences were set up to deter counter-protesters. Police vans stationed themselves at various corners, and officers in riot gear were on alert.
Trump is scheduled to arrive at the G7 on Monday, landing at Geneva airport before making his way to the summit in Evian, France.
In anticipation of the protests, French and Swiss authorities closed 27 border crossings on Sunday to prevent demonstrators from entering the serene spa town on Lake Geneva where Trump and other leaders are positioned.
A military helicopter conducted surveillance over Lake Geneva, circling the iconic Jet d’Eau, renowned as one of the tallest fountains globally. Meanwhile, police boats patrolled the waters, ensuring safety.
The planned protests are organized by the “Non-G7” coalition, a group comprising over 60 organizations, trade unions, and leftist groups denouncing “fascism and imperialism.” They had to obtain permits for the demonstration.
One of their signs read, “The only good system is a sound system,” a sentiment echoed throughout the city.
Concerns linger about the potential volatility of the protests, reminiscent of the riots in 2003 when demonstrators smashed windows during a G8 meeting, injuring thousands.
Francoise Niferard, a spokeswoman for the NoG7 coalition, expressed worry over the actions of Trump and other G7 leaders. “We are very afraid of their policies because they lead to wars everywhere,” she told The Associated Press. “The planet is in danger, and we want to voice that many around the world oppose their actions.”
A protest had already occurred on Friday, and a flotilla of around 20 boats displayed anti-G7 and pro-Palestinian messages off the coast of Evian on Saturday.
In response to the anticipated crowds, both French and Swiss military forces are collaborating with local police to maintain order.
The G7 summit convenes leaders from major developed economies, including the UK, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the United States. French President Emmanuel Macron invited additional leaders, including those from India and several Middle Eastern nations.
This three-day summit, commencing Monday, marks the first such gathering since the onset of military actions involving Iran initiated by Trump.
The UFC is set to host seven fights on the South Lawn, with the event’s start delayed by a day to allow Trump to celebrate his 80th birthday on Sunday.
