Two climate activists were arrested today after splashing bright orange powder paint on the ancient stones of Stonehenge in a bold stunt organised by the radical group Just Stop Oil. The protest took place just a day before the summer solstice, as thousands prepare to visit the iconic prehistoric site in Wiltshire.
At midday, the shocking scene unfolded as two protesters, clad in white Just Stop Oil shirts, rushed toward the monoliths and sprayed orange paint from canisters. Despite onlookers trying to stop them, the pair covered several stones and then sat defiantly on the grass.
This dramatic act of civil disobedience is designed to pressure governments to end fossil fuel use by 2030. Just Stop Oil criticised the government’s current “no new oil and gas” pledge as insufficient. A spokesperson said, “Humanity’s survival is at stake. We must unite to protect our planet. That’s why we call on the next government to sign a legally binding treaty for a fossil fuel-free future by 2030.” They warned that fossil fuels risk costing millions of lives if action is delayed.
Wiltshire Police acted quickly, arresting the two activists for defacing the protected monument. Authorities now face the delicate task of restoring the stones without damaging this world-famous heritage site.
The stunt has once again thrust urgent climate concerns into the spotlight, but critics argue that defacing Stonehenge is not the way to win public support.
Originally published by UKNIP.
