Climate activists from the group Letzte Generation staged protests at four airports in Germany, causing disruptions in air traffic. The activists glued themselves to the tarmac of Cologne Bonn, Nuremberg, Berlin, and Stuttgart airports, demanding a global exit from the use of oil, gas, and coal by 2030. While flights were temporarily halted at Nuremberg and Cologne Bonn, operations at Berlin and Stuttgart were unaffected as police quickly removed the protesters. All eight activists involved in the protests were arrested.
Interior Minister Nancy Faeser criticized the activists, calling their actions “dangerous and stupid,” warning of tougher penalties for airport intruders. She highlighted legislation that would impose stricter punishments on individuals who break through airport perimeters, with penalties including up to a two-year prison sentence for intentional intrusions on airside areas. Currently, intruders only receive fines for such actions.
Letzte Generation is known for its attention-grabbing protests, such as throwing mashed potatoes at paintings in museums and gluing themselves onto busy roads. In July, activists from the group disrupted traffic at Frankfurt airport by gluing themselves to the tarmac during the busy summer holiday season.
The group’s actions have drawn attention to the urgent need for action on climate change and the transition to renewable energy sources. While their tactics may be controversial, they have succeeded in raising awareness about the importance of addressing environmental issues.
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