Clashes erupt in Thessaloniki during protest against Ilias Kasidiaris speech

On Wednesday, October 28, 2026, violent clashes broke out in Thessaloniki during protests against a scheduled speech by Ilias Kasidiaris, who has been convicted for membership in a criminal organization. The protest took place near the Eleftherios Venizelos statue and the Egnatia street area, where members of PAME, leftist organizations, and anarchist groups gathered to oppose the event held at the Capsis Hotel.

Demonstrators attempted to march toward the hotel in defiance of a city-wide ban on public assemblies issued by the General Police Directorate. Police forces, specifically the riot police (MAT), blocked the protesters' path, leading to physical confrontations. Officers deployed tear gas and flash-bang grenades to disperse the crowds, who responded by throwing rocks and other objects. Six individuals were detained by authorities following the incidents.

By the following day, police confirmed that all six detained individuals were released without charges as no evidence against them was found. The situation in the city center was eventually stabilized, roads were cleared for traffic, and local metro stations reopened. No further escalations were reported following the dispersal of the protesters into surrounding side streets.