WASHINGTON: Large-scale protests against US President Donald Trump erupted across the United States and several European cities on Saturday, as millions rallied against what they described as authoritarian policies and the ongoing war against Iran.
The demonstrations were organised under the grassroots “No Kings” movement and marked the third nationwide protest day in less than a year since the start of Trump’s second term in January 2025.
Rallies were held in major US cities, including Atlanta and communities near Detroit, while solidarity protests also took place in Amsterdam, Madrid and Rome. Protesters voiced concerns over the administration’s domestic and foreign policies, particularly the conflict involving Iran.
Organisers said more than 3,000 rallies were planned nationwide, spanning major urban centres as well as suburban and rural areas. The first “No Kings” protest in June last year reportedly drew millions of participants, while a second event in October attracted an estimated seven million demonstrators.
The latest demonstrations come amid declining approval ratings for the US president and ahead of midterm elections scheduled for November. Protesters criticised the administration’s use of executive authority, immigration policies and increased military involvement abroad.
Cultural support for protests
Musician Bruce Springsteen is scheduled to perform the protest song Streets of Minneapolis in St. Paul, Minnesota, a focal point in the national debate over immigration enforcement. The song was written in memory of two US citizens killed during earlier demonstrations.
Organisers say participation has broadened significantly, with a majority of expected protesters coming from outside major metropolitan areas, signalling expanding nationwide opposition.