Accessibility links

Breaking News

Brussels Reopens Amid Continuing Security Alert


Schools and the subway system in the Belgian capital, Brussels, have reopened following four days of closure during a city-wide security clampdown.

Security throughout the city remained high on November 25 and the city is still on its highest-level security alert. Some 300 extra police were assigned to protect schools and about 200 soldiers were patrolling the subway system.

About half of the city's subway stations remain closed. Museums and other public buildings have also been reopened.

About two dozen people were detained during the security crackdown, which began on November 21 and came in the wake of the November 13 terrorist attacks in Paris that left 130 dead and hundreds injured.

All have been released except for five who face terrorism-related charges connected with the Paris attacks.

Officials in Bruge have ordered that a Europa League soccer match set for November 26 be played in an empty stadium, saying police were needed elsewhere. Other entertainment and sporting events throughout the country have been canceled.

A Davis Cup tennis match between Britain and Belgium set for November 29 in Ghent is expected to proceed as scheduled.

Based on reporting by Reuters, AFP, and dpa

RFE/RL has been declared an "undesirable organization" by the Russian government.

If you are in Russia or the Russia-controlled parts of Ukraine and hold a Russian passport or are a stateless person residing permanently in Russia or the Russia-controlled parts of Ukraine, please note that you could face fines or imprisonment for sharing, liking, commenting on, or saving our content, or for contacting us.

To find out more, click here.

XS
SM
MD
LG