European Protests Unite Against Trump's Policies in the "Hands OFF" Movement

In a display of international solidarity, protesters gathered in major European cities such as London, Paris, Berlin, and Lisbon to join the "Hands OFF" movement, opposing key policies of the Trump administration. The movement particularly highlights the negative consequences of the administration's "reciprocal tariffs," which include a 10-percent "minimum baseline tariff" on imports and additional tariffs targeted at countries with significant trade deficits with the U.S. These tariffs have triggered a downturn in global stock markets and raised alarm among economic observers.

In London, a notable turnout of hundreds took to Trafalgar Square, with members of Democrats Abroad UK (DAUK) prominently featured among the crowd. Chanting against hate and holding banners with messages like "Greenland is Not For Sale," protesters conveyed their desire for a more inclusive future. One participant, a Philadelphia native holding a family heirloom American flag, shared her disillusionment with Trump's presidency and expressed the importance of global solidarity amid rising tensions.

Across the Atlantic in Lisbon, American expatriates gathered to advocate for civil rights and freedom of speech, showcasing powerful slogans such as "Hands Off the Constitution." Longtime activist Caryl Hallberg spoke about the adverse effects of Trump's economic policies on American retirees living in Portugal, particularly concerning pension cuts. Fellow protester Jaiy Conboy contributed an original song criticizing the chaos and power struggles associated with the Trump administration.

In Paris, around 200 individuals congregated at Place de la Republique, rallying against Trump and making their voices heard through speeches and a performance of Bob Dylan’s "Masters of War." Demonstrations also unfolded in Germany, with protesters assembling in Berlin outside the Tesla showroom and the U.S. embassy, calling for an end to the ongoing chaos within the United States. These European protests followed a wave of demonstrations throughout the U.S., where over 1,400 events were organized by a wide-ranging coalition expressing dissent against various controversial policies since January.