Farmer protest in Brussels

Ten thousand protesters are in Brussels for a major farmer demonstration against the EU’s Mercosur trade agreement. Almost 70 Irish farmers joined the protests, which saw streets blocked since early morning. The protest, the largest by EU farmers in a decade, aims to pressure heads of state during a crucial summit.

Farmers are rallying against cuts to income supports while the Commission pushes for the trade deal approval. A tractor convoy stretching 5km contributed to the protest's visibility. The outcome of the vote on the agreement remains uncertain.