Newstalk Breakfast Newstalk Breakfast

Protests across Europe ended in violence

Nov 2, 2026 · 5m

Summary

Newstalk Breakfast reports on the attempted murder of a French police officer during recent protests, prompting an official investigation into the use of petrol bombs. Correspondent Jamie Smith-Mae details how initially peaceful student-led demonstrations in Paris turned violent at their conclusion, contrasting the lower turnout and heavy police presence with previous unrest. The episode also draws parallels to similar clashes and looting incidents in Germany, highlighting broader concerns over protest violence across Europe.

Topics discussed

Show introduction and guest welcome Context: Police violence in France and Germany Details of the attempted murder incident Comparison with previous cost-of-living protests Factors behind reduced violence this weekend Police deployment and Halloween security concerns Investigation into petrol bombs and agitators Parallels with protests in Germany
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