Swiss police deploy tear gas, water cannons after protesters damage vehicles, UN-linked buildings in Geneva

Swiss police used tear gas and water cannons Sunday after demonstrators damaged vehicles and buildings during a march against the upcoming G7 summit in neighboring France. Police said around 20,000 people participated in the demonstration, including a group of about 600 wearing black clothing and masks.

A Tesla vehicle was set on fire. Windows were smashed at a UN International Telecommunications Union building and at a Banque du Leman branch. Protesters threw stones, bottles, cement pieces, and firecrackers at police officers. Demonstrators also threw flares near a UN telecommunication building.

Police prevented protesters from reaching the UN's European headquarters, which was protected by water cannon trucks. Officers confiscated knives, axes, gas canisters, and powerful pyrotechnical devices from some participants.

The main Geneva hospital prepared large tents for possible casualties. Businesses in Geneva boarded up their windows before the demonstration. Hundreds of riot police were deployed in barricaded streets, with helicopters overhead.

The G7 summit will begin Monday in Évian-les-Bains, France, with leaders from Britain, France, Canada, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United States, and the European Union expected to attend through Wednesday.