AfD youth wing launch in Berlin erupts into violent clashes and car attack
The launch of the AfD's youth wing in Berlin sparked clashes between protesters and attendees. Police are now investigating an incident where a car struck a cyclist during the event. The gathering also drew attention for its ties to former far-right activists.
The founding event of the AfD youth organisation, Generation Deutschland, took place in Berlin after its location was kept secret until the last hour. Despite the late announcement, around 200 counter-protesters gathered near the AfD's federal headquarters in Wittenau. Some attempted to block access, leading to scuffles as police cleared a roadblock for arriving members.
Three figures with known far-right connections—Martin Kohler, Christopher Wiedenhaupt, and Marko Penić—were elected to leadership roles in the Berlin branch. Their involvement marked a return of personnel from the party's previous youth wing, which had been disbanded.
During the unrest, a cyclist taking part in the protest was deliberately hit by a car driven by an AfD event attendee. Authorities are treating the incident as suspected dangerous bodily harm. Meanwhile, the AfD restricted media access, barring one outlet while allowing others inside.
Police had secured the area in advance, anticipating the counter-protest. Despite their presence, tensions flared as anti-fascist activists confronted arriving AfD members.
The event ended with an ongoing police investigation into the car incident. The AfD's youth wing now moves forward under leadership linked to far-right circles. Counter-protesters have vowed to continue opposing the group's activities in Berlin.
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