The Italian collective Nemesis discusses a violent attack in Lyon that highlights growing tensions and the atmosphere of impunity in France regarding antifascist violence.
In an exclusive interview with Il Giornale, Astrid M. from the collective Nemesis reflects on a premeditated attack on Quentin D. in Lyon, attributed to antifascist violence. The incident, which involved coordinated aggression against a group protesting a leftist EU parliament member, underscores a rising trend of such escalations in France. The interview reveals concerns about the safety of political dissenters and the implications of a perceived climate of impunity for aggressors.
The attack was described as a 'punitive expedition' where the aggressors arrived equipped with reinforced gloves and tear gas, intent on inflicting maximum harm. The collective had anticipated potential violence and had encouraged members to attend but maintain a safe distance in case of confrontation. Unfortunately, their foresight proved correct as violence erupted, resulting in severe injuries among those targeted.
Astrid's account raises alarm about the growing normalization of political violence and the responsibilities of authorities to address such incidents. With mounting instances of similar aggressions, she calls for greater awareness and vigilance among those in the political arena, warning that if left unchecked, similar outbreaks may proliferate in Italy as well, reflecting a toxic undercurrent within European political discourse.
