Gen Z-led protests have spread across Germany, with thousands taking to the streets in Berlin, Cologne, Hamburg and other cities over rising living costs, education and public services. Organised under the youth initiative 'Gen Z regelt', demonstrations were called in around 30 cities, with over 140,000 people signing up online. Protesters also opposed a possible return of military conscription. Tensions escalated in Cologne, where police used water cannons after firecrackers were set off.