Extinction Rebellion Protests U.S. Ambassador’s Speech at Nijmegen Bombing Memorial, Nine Arrested
Nine individuals were arrested on Sunday, February 22, 2026, after protesters disrupted the annual commemoration of the U.S. Bombing of Nijmegen during a speech by U.S. Ambassador Joe Popolo. The protest, organized by XR Justice Now, a subgroup of Extinction Rebellion Netherlands, aimed to highlight the U.S. Role in civilian deaths worldwide and challenge the narrative surrounding the 1944 bombing.
Disruption and Arrests
The commemoration, marking 82 years since the bombing that killed 800 people and wounded thousands, took place at the square in front of Nijmegen’s city hall. Protesters made noise “with banners and verbally” during Ambassador Popolo’s address, according to a spokesperson for Mayor Hubert Bruls. Police subsequently arrested nine people, as reported by authorities.
Challenging Historical Narratives
XR Justice Now contested the widely accepted account of the bombing as a mistake, calling it “false historiography.” The group emphasized the importance of presenting an accurate account “to prevent further suffering.” During World War II, Nijmegen was under German occupation, and pilots, diverted due to poor weather, targeted the Nijmegen rail yard, resulting in significant damage to the city center.
Pro-Palestinian and Anti-American Sentiment
The protest included anti-American and pro-Palestinian slogans, with one demonstrator waving an Iraqi flag. Protesters displayed a banner stating, “The U.S. Still bombs innocent people,” and labeled the ambassador’s speech as “hypocritical.” One American protester expressed shame over U.S. Foreign policy, stating, “How dare you stand here? I am an American. I am ashamed.”
Criticism from Local Officials
Mayor Bruls criticized the protest as “not a respectful way” to observe the anniversary.
Extinction Rebellion Under Investigation
This protest follows recent news that Extinction Rebellion is under federal U.S. Investigation, with some members visited by FBI agents.