Brussels drowned in manure: farmers from 27 countries staged a "fragrant" protest (1 photo + 6 videos)
Brussels' attempt to cut the agricultural budget in the EU's multi-annual financial plan unexpectedly resulted in a veritable "friendly visit" by thousands of farmers from several countries. 
In December 2025, when EU leaders gathered for a summit, the Belgian capital turned into the scene of an epic standoff: around a thousand tractors paralyzed the city center, blocking the neighborhoods around the European institutions.
Farmers from Belgium, France, Germany, Poland, Italy, and other countries did not arrive empty-handed. They dumped tons of potatoes and beets on the asphalt. Passersby, not amused, scooped the tubers into bags, as if they were at a free market.
Liquid manure from tankers was poured onto the streets, tires were burned, and eggs and vegetables were thrown at the police. In response, they received tear gas, water cannons, and arrests. It's all the same old classic.
It all started with the European Commission's plans to cut spending on the Common Agricultural Policy and expedite the signing of a free trade agreement with the Mercosur bloc (Latin American countries).
Farmers fear an influx of cheap meat, sugar, and grain from Brazil and Argentina, where standards are lower than European ones, and claim they don't want to compete with the "jungle."
As a result, the summit postponed the signing of the deal until January, and the streets of Brussels were cleared of fifty tons of waste: manure, vegetables, burnt tires, and other "delights."
