In Madrid, thousands of farmers and ranchers participated in a significant protest against the trade agreement between the European Union and Mercosur, as well as the anticipated cuts in the future Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). The demonstration was marked by the presence of hundreds of tractors and was organized by prominent agricultural associations including the Union of Farmers and Ranchers and the National Union of Independent Farmers and Ranchers Associations (UNASPI). The event unfolded peacefully, with a strong security presence, reflecting the organizers' preparations for a substantial turnout.

The protesting farmers and livestock producers expressed grave concerns that the opening of European markets to South American agricultural products could adversely affect local economies. They argue that the influx of these products would undermine local agricultural sectors, leading to potential losses in jobs and income for local farmers. The anticipated changes to the Common Agricultural Policy further heighten these concerns, as the farmers fear these reforms may lead to decreased support for European agriculture, potentially exacerbating their economic difficulties.

The scale of attendance, with organizers expecting up to 500 tractors to arrive in the Spanish capital, reflects a growing unease among the agricultural community regarding international trade agreements and their implications on local livelihoods. This protest is a clear indicator of the pushback against policies perceived to favor global trade at the expense of domestic agricultural industries, urging policymakers to take their voices into consideration as negotiations progress.