Brussels erupts in protest against government cuts to welfare.

Thousands of people in Belgium protested against the government's plans to cut social services. The protests caused disruptions in transportation, with the Brussels airport closing and public transport being limited.

The new government, led by Prime Minister Bart De Wever, wants to reduce the country's debt by cutting pensions and public service jobs. Union leaders argue that these cuts unfairly impact the working class and that the wealthy should contribute more.

The protests in Belgium are part of a larger trend in Europe, where governments are cutting social programs in response to economic challenges. Belgium, with debt exceeding its GDP, faces pressure from NATO allies, particularly the United States, to increase defense spending.

Despite facing budget constraints, the government plans to increase defense spending to meet NATO requirements, further fueling the protesters' anger. Union leaders criticize this decision, arguing that the government is prioritizing defense spending over social services.

The government insists that the reforms are necessary and will be implemented gradually, with a focus on social justice. The unions plan to continue their protests with a general strike scheduled for later in the month.