Mayor of San Sebastián Jon Insausti has reaffirmed, following the unrest in Bilbao that “violence will not return to the streets of Donostia ”. Insausti responded on 27 October 2026 to calls circulating on social media from the platform Blocus for disruption in several Spanish cities, including San Sebastián. He said the city was preparing preventively and coordinating closely with the security forces. He gave no specific operational details, but stressed that the city’s position was “clear and without exceptions based on political affiliation”.
Insausti said he had been in contact with Bilbao mayor Juan Mari Aburto, to discuss the situation and express solidarity. There had been some serious riots in Bilbao on 26 October 2026. According to consistent media reports, rubbish bins were set on fire, windows were smashed and police made arrests. The events were triggered by demonstrations and counter-protests linked to an announced event by the controversial activist Vito Quiles; according to reports, facilities at the Universidad de Deusto adjusted their operations as a precaution. Officials and parties across the political spectrum from the Basque Country unequivocally condemned the violence.
San Sebastián’s mayor presented his remarks as a preventative signal: Donostia should not become a scene of clashes, regardless of which political camp violence comes from. The city administration referred to routine coordination with the police and municipal services. Their focus was on preventing possible disruption, securing public spaces and, where necessary, quickly repairing damage.
The remarks come amid a nationwide debate about how to handle politically charged mobilisations and the risk of escalation. While supporters of strict security measures insist on protecting public order, civil rights representatives routinely warn against blanket restrictions on peaceful assembly. Insausti’s position clearly aligns with a policy of early prevention and drawing clear lines against violence.
No figures for injuries, arrests or damage in San Sebastián were available on 27 October. So far, only the announcement of increased vigilance and coordination in Donostia has been confirmed. Statements on any further measures are expected in the coming days and, according to sources at the town hall, will depend on how the announced protest calls develop. What is clear, however, is that the events in Bilbao are an immediate reason for authorities in the Basque Country to review precautions in neighbouring cities.
Editor: Mira Cadena (Article created with AI assistance).