Amsterdam Hosts 'No Kings' Protest in Solidarity with US Anti-Trump Rallies

Protest Against Perceived Authoritarianism

On Saturday, October 18, 2025, hundreds of protestors convened at Amsterdam's Museumplein for a 'No Kings' demonstration. The rally, held outside the US consulate, aimed to express solidarity with ongoing anti-Trump movements in the United States. Organizers stated the protest was a stand against what they described as the 'authoritarian excesses and corruption' of the administration of US President Donald Trump.

Motivations and Slogans

The 'No Kings' movement, which also held a similar protest on June 14, 2025, articulated its opposition to several policies. These included the targeting of immigrants, the use of military forces in US cities, and perceived reductions in education funding. A key message from the 'No Kings' organization emphasized, 'The president thinks his rule is absolute. But in America, we don't have kings and we won't back down against chaos, corruption, and cruelty.' Protestors displayed various signs and chanted slogans, including:

• 'Hate won't make the U.S. great'
• 'Live, laugh, lock up dictators'
• 'America has a president, not a king'
• 'No treats for tyrants'

The demonstration on October 18, 2025, was organized by individuals such as Hayley Hughes, a 39-year-old PhD student, who expressed the importance of showing support for protestors in the US.

Global Solidarity and Context

The Amsterdam event was part of a broader, worldwide series of demonstrations. The 'No Kings' protests, sometimes referred to as 'No Tyrants' or 'No Dictators' protests internationally, are largely organized in response to what participants view as democratic backsliding and attempts to consolidate power by the Trump administration. The June 14, 2025, protest in Amsterdam, which drew around 300 participants, coincided with a military parade planned in Washington D.C. for President Trump's 79th birthday, an event widely criticized by protest groups. Organizers for the June event included groups like People for Democracy, Democrats Abroad Netherlands, and the Women's March.

Ongoing Concerns

The protests reflect ongoing concerns among some Americans living abroad and international observers regarding US political developments. The 'No Kings' movement aims to mobilize against perceived authoritarian tendencies and to advocate for democratic principles. The Amsterdam gathering served as a visible sign of international engagement with and opposition to specific US policies and leadership.