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German Deputy Chancellor Blocked by Protesting Farmers

Government's Delay of Diesel Subsidy Cuts Fails to Quell Farmer Protests

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29 December 2023, North Rhine-Westphalia, Siegen: With a convoy of several hundred tractors, farmers in the Siegen area protested on Friday against the savings plans of the traffic light coalition. Photo: Christian Knieps/dpa (Photo by Christian Knieps/picture alliance via Getty Images)

Overview

  • German Deputy Chancellor Robert Habeck was prevented from disembarking a ferry by protesting farmers, leading to a standoff of around two hours.
  • The farmers are protesting planned cuts to diesel subsidies, with a general strike planned for Monday, January 8.
  • The government has partially caved to the lobby group, delaying the planned cuts so they will not come into effect until 2026, but this has not satisfied the protesters.
  • Politicians and the German Farmers' Association have condemned the blockade, with the latter stating that 'blockades of this type are a no-go.'
  • Habeck expressed regret that there had been no room for dialogue during the standoff and concern over the heated mood in the country.