Sat Mar 01 11:07:45 UTC 2025: ## Greece Marks Rail Disaster Anniversary with Violent Protests

**ATHENS, GREECE** – A general strike and widespread protests marking the second anniversary of Greece’s deadliest rail disaster turned violent on Friday, February 28, 2025. Hundreds of thousands participated in demonstrations across the country, demanding accountability for the 57 deaths resulting from the head-on collision between a passenger and freight train on February 28, 2023.

Clashes erupted in Athens and Thessaloniki between protesters and riot police. In Athens, near the Parliament building, protesters hurled gasoline bombs and rocks, prompting police to respond with tear gas, stun grenades, and water cannons. At least 20 people required medical attention, and authorities reported 120 detentions, including 27 arrests. Similar clashes occurred in Thessaloniki.

The protests, among the largest since Greece’s debt crisis, reflect widespread public anger at the government’s perceived lack of accountability and the slow pace of the investigation. While rail officials face charges, critics demand that politicians also be held responsible for systemic failures that contributed to the disaster. A report released the previous day blamed human error, outdated infrastructure, and systemic failures for the collision.

The general strike, supported by major unions like the General Confederation of Greek Workers, severely disrupted transportation, businesses, and public services. Many businesses closed in solidarity with the victims’ families. Demonstrations also took place internationally.

Families of the victims, including many university students, urged for peaceful remembrance, but the protests have created a politically charged atmosphere for Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis’ government. While his party maintains a poll lead, the disaster’s aftermath has boosted support for opposition parties.

Prime Minister Mitsotakis pledged continued efforts to improve rail safety, echoing the call for truth and accountability from union leaders and grieving families like that of Maria Krystianou, whose daughter died in the crash. She has become a prominent voice in the campaign for justice.

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