Just Stop Oil Protesters Smash Glass at National Gallery
Two Just Stop Oil activists were arrested after shattering the protective glass covering the famed Rokeby Venus painting at the National Gallery. The Metropolitan Police confirmed the arrests on suspicion of criminal damage, marking another daring stunt in the eco-group’s ongoing war on fossil fuels.
Historic Painting Targeted in Bold Vandalism
The Rokeby Venus, a 17th-century masterpiece by Diego Velázquez, has a notorious activist legacy. Back in 1914, suffragette Mary Richardson slashed the painting in a radical protest. Now, over 100 years later, the painting is once again thrust into the spotlight by climate campaigners.
Activists Use Hammers to Break Protective Glass
Just Stop Oil named the culprits as 22-year-old Hanan and 20-year-old Harrison. The pair smashed the glass casing with safety hammers as part of their protest. The group released a statement:
“Women did not get the vote by voting; it is time for deeds not words. It is time to Just Stop Oil. Politics is failing us. It failed women in 1914, and it is failing us now. New oil and gas will kill millions. If we love art, if we love life, if we love our families, we must Just Stop Oil.”
Just Stop Oil’s Campaign Reaches Fever Pitch
The climate activists have ramped up their protests across the UK, targeting museums, galleries, major roads, and even sporting events to spotlight the climate crisis. Recently, over 20 protesters faced charges after a demonstration in west London where 45 activists marched along Earl’s Court Road. Some resisted arrest, leading to 23 charges under Section 7 of the Public Order Act 2023.
The group’s key demand is clear: no new fossil fuel licences from the government. Their message is urgent—halt fossil fuel expansion now or face catastrophic consequences.
