Clashes erupt in Thessaloniki over Kasidiaris speech

Violent clashes broke out in Thessaloniki on Wednesday afternoon as protesters gathered to oppose a scheduled speech by Ilias Kasidiaris, who was previously convicted for his involvement in a criminal organization. The demonstrations occurred near the statue of Eleftherios Venizelos and spread to Egnatia Street near Aristotelous Square, where a heavy police presence was deployed to maintain order.

Demonstrators from various leftist and communist organizations, including PAME, attempted to march toward the Capsis Hotel to disrupt the event. Police forces, including riot squads (MAT), enforced a ban on public gatherings in the city center by establishing blockades. Tensions escalated into physical confrontations when protesters attempted to break through the police lines, prompting authorities to use chemical irritants and flash-bang grenades to disperse the crowds.

The event faced significant public opposition due to the controversial background of the speaker. Authorities had officially banned public gatherings in the city center for the duration of the day to prevent such disruptions, leading to direct confrontations between law enforcement and those seeking to protest the scheduled appearance. The situation remained volatile as security forces continued to monitor the area to prevent further attempts to reach the hotel venue.