Spain: Opposing activists stage demonstrations in central Madrid late Jan. 18

Opposing activists have gathered to stage demonstrations in the vicinity of the Teatro de La Abadia on Calle de Fernandez de los Rios in Madrid as of late Jan. 18. Dozens of activists affiliated with the Vox political party have assembled to protest the premiere of a play at the venue. Supporters of the Podemos political party have also reportedly gathered to stage a counterprotest at the scene. Some demonstrators appear to have obstructed traffic in the area. Police have deployed to the site of the protest activity.

Authorities will likely maintain a heightened security presence in the area to monitor the demonstrations. Traffic disruptions are likely to impact the vicinity of the Teatro de La Abadia until the demonstrators disperse. Low-level confrontations between opposing activists or between demonstrators and law enforcement officers cannot be ruled out.