Europe's far right gains ground as fuel-price protests spread ahead of key elections

Protests over soaring fuel and living costs are erupting across Europe, fueling support for far-right parties ahead of key elections in France, Italy, and Poland next year. The unrest follows an energy price spike triggered by the US-Iran war that began in February. In France, demonstrations have turned into some of the worst unrest in decades, with looting and arson, while farmers in Sicily and truckers in southern Italy have blockaded roads. Far-right leaders like Marine Le Pen are capitalizing on the crisis, proposing fuel tax cuts, and parties in Germany and Italy are calling to restore energy ties with Russia. The European Commission estimates the conflict has cost Europe roughly €100 billion, with gas prices up 140% and diesel doubled. Analysts note populist parties often frame high energy costs as avoidable government policy choices, which resonates with voters facing economic strain.