A national protest by 'Generation Z' in Mexico City, which brought together thousands of Mexicans of all ages, ended in riots at the country's main square, outside the National Palace, the seat of the executive branch. The march, which began peacefully at the Angel of Independence as a almost family-like event, turned violent as it approached the nation's largest square. Activists from the 'black block' emerged at the forefront, leading to a direct clash with the police. Protesters threw rocks and other objects at the police, attempting to break down the barricades protecting the National Palace. In response, the capital's police force used tear gas and fire extinguisher powder. Local media reported that paramedics treated 20 people for injuries during the clashes. The protest was sparked by the recent assassination of Uruapan's mayor, Carlos Manzo (1985-2025), which was the final straw for many participants. The crowd was a diverse mix of students, farmers, opposition members, supporters, and people from the state of Michoacán. Among them was Christian, who told EFE that the violence in his home state 'has gotten out of control.' 'It's pure political cynicism,' he stated, adding that he marched without representing any political party and without receiving any money. The underlying issue of violence has persisted in the country since the 2018 government change, and tensions escalated after President Sheinbaum suggested that the 'Generation Z Mexico' movement might be armed by the opposition. The head of Citizen Security, Pablo Vázquez, reported that the clashes left 20 civilians injured and over 100 police officers injured, as well as around 20 arrests.
