Thousands Unite in Berlin: "No to War" Protest Draws Massive Crowd on German Unity Day

*Thousands Unite in Berlin: "No to War" Protest Draws Massive Crowd on German Unity Day*

Berlin, Germany - Thousands of people gathered in Berlin on German Unity Day to participate in a massive peace demonstration, chanting "No to war - lay down your arms." The protest, attended by 25,000 registered participants and monitored by 1,000 police officers, aimed to voice opposition to several key issues: the deployment of American missiles in Germany, the ongoing war in Ukraine and the Middle East, and Germany's supply of weapons to Ukraine and Israel.

The demonstration, organized by a coalition of peace groups, trade unions, and civil society organizations, highlighted the growing concern among Germans about their country's involvement in international conflicts. Protesters from all walks of life, including students, workers, and pensioners, came together to demand a more peaceful and diplomatic approach to resolving global disputes.

*Key Demands of the Protest:*

- Immediate End to War: Protesters called for an immediate ceasefire and peace negotiations to end the war in Ukraine.

- No to American Missiles: Demonstrators opposed the deployment of American missiles in Germany, citing concerns about regional stability and security.

- Stop Supplying Weapons: Protesters demanded that Germany stop supplying weapons to Ukraine and Israel, advocating for diplomatic solutions over military intervention.

In addition to the main demonstration in Berlin, other protests took place in Hamburg, Munich, Kalkar/Uedem, Düsseldorf, Saarbrücken, Schorndorf, and Heidelberg. In Hamburg, over 700 people rallied in front of the Altona train station, followed by a march to the fish market. In Munich, 2,500 people gathered on Marienplatz, demanding peace and an end to militarism.

The protests have sparked international attention, with many organizations and leaders expressing support for the peace movement. The Vienna Peace Conference has called for a global mobilization week to demand peace negotiations and an end to the war in Ukraine.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has faced pressure to address the concerns of the protesters. While acknowledging the importance of peace, Scholz reiterated Germany's commitment to NATO and its allies.

Thousands of protesters marched through Berlin's city center, holding signs reading "No to War" and "Peace Now." Police officers monitored the protest.

Deutsche Welle reported that thousands protested against war and militarism in Germany, while Reuters noted that Germans protested against war and US missiles on Unity Day. The Guardian highlighted Germany's peace movement gaining momentum as thousands protested.