A far-left activist group in Germany, known as Vulkangruppe, recently claimed responsibility for a suspected arson attack. This incident impacted tens of thousands of homes, businesses, and hospitals, leaving many without power in freezing temperatures.
The group stated that their target was the fossil fuel economy, not the people affected by the power outage. Early on a Saturday, fires were reported on cables near a power plant in southwest Berlin. The flames were quickly extinguished, but the result was significant: about 45,000 households and 2,200 businesses lost electricity.
The state economy minister confirmed that incendiary devices caused the damage. Berlin’s mayor condemned the actions of what he called “suspected left-wing extremists,” emphasizing that they endangered lives, particularly those of hospital patients. In response, officials provided emergency power generators to hospitals and care facilities. Some patients were relocated to other facilities to ensure their safety.
By Sunday, power had been restored to some hospitals, but as of that afternoon, around 10,000 households and 300 businesses were still without electricity. Schools planned to reopen after the Christmas holidays were forced to remain closed.
The electricity operator estimated that it would take until Thursday to restore power to all customers. In their statement, Vulkangruppe apologized to those affected, especially less affluent residents, but expressed less concern for wealthier homeowners. They described their actions as “self-defense” and a show of solidarity for environmental protection.
Experts in sociology and political science suggest that the rise of groups like Vulkangruppe may be tied to increasing frustration with climate policies and the slow pace of change. A recent survey found that many young people feel disillusioned with traditional methods of protest, leading them to more extreme actions.
In a similar vein, social media has seen discussions around the attack. Users are divided, with some expressing support for the group’s intentions while others condemn the methods. This event has sparked a larger conversation about the balance between activism and public safety.
As investigations continue, police have indicated that they find the group’s claims credible. This incident follows a pattern of escalating tensions surrounding climate activism and public response, reminiscent of past protests that turned violent, such as those during the climate strikes of 2019.
For more information on the implications of such actions and their background, BBC has detailed previous claims by Vulkangruppe, including a disruptive attack on Tesla’s Berlin factory in 2024. This highlights a growing trend of direct action among activists seeking urgent change in our approach to climate issues.
