Key facts
- Dutch farmers protested the government's budget plans on Tuesday.
- Fires were set near highways, causing road closures and traffic disruptions.
- Pipes were found attached to railway tracks in over 20 locations, disrupting train services.
- The Farmers Defence Force stated the fires were a reaction to government plans.
- Farmers Defence Force denied responsibility for the railway sabotage.
- The Dutch intelligence agency AIVD is investigating the railway sabotage.
Dutch farmers initiated protests on Tuesday by setting fires near highways and tying pipes to railway tracks, disrupting traffic and rail services ahead of the state opening of parliament. The Farmers Defence Force claimed responsibility for the fires, stating they were a response to government budget plans that farmers feel threaten their businesses. Spokesperson Sieta van Keimpema said, "We feel like the country is on fire. Farmers feel as though their businesses are on fire because of the government's plans." However, the group denied responsibility for the railway sabotage, although they could not rule out individual farmers acting alone. Railway operator ProRail confirmed that pipes had been deliberately placed on tracks in over 20 locations, leading them to classify the incidents as sabotage. The Dutch intelligence agency AIVD is investigating the railway sabotage alongside police and prosecutors. The protests coincide with the government's budget plans for 2027, which were outlined by King Willem-Alexander. These plans, which aim to address nitrogen pollution, have led to widespread farmer protests in recent months, with the government promising financial compensation for affected businesses.