Thousands in Vienna protest Austria’s looming lockdown

By EMILY SCHULTHEIS and KIRSTEN GRIESHABER
Associated Press

VIENNA (AP) — Thousands of protesters have gathered in Vienna after the Austrian government announced a nationwide lockdown to contain the country’s skyrocketing coronavirus infections. Among others, the far-right opposition Freedom Party has called for Saturday’s protest and vowed to combat the new restrictions. The Austrian lockdown will start early Monday and initially will last for 10 days. Most stores will close, and cultural events will be canceled. People will be able to leave their homes only for certain specific reasons, including buying groceries, going to the doctor or exercising. Demonstrations against virus measures are also expected in countries including Switzerland, Croatia and Italy. On Friday night, police opened fire on protesters in Rotterdam, Netherlands.