Climate activists from Just Stop Oil interrupted the London Pride parade on Saturday, halting a Coca-Cola truck and protesting the parade's corporate sponsors. Nine demonstrators sat in the street in front of the truck, bringing the parade to a temporary standstill. The group stated that the protest occurred after London Pride failed to meet their demands regarding sponsors, specifically those they deem "destructive industries" using Pride for "pinkwashing."

Five of the protesters were arrested, while two others were released on bail. Just Stop Oil spokesperson James Skeet criticized the parade for accepting sponsorships from "high polluting" companies, arguing that Pride's origins lie in protest and that corporate involvement undermines the event's original purpose. He questioned what early gay liberation activists would think of the current state of Pride.

This incident follows a series of controversial protests by Just Stop Oil, including defacing artwork to raise awareness about climate change. The group has faced considerable backlash from London residents, leading to tense confrontations. In a previous incident, a frustrated commuter physically confronted a protester blocking traffic. While the commuter was arrested, the protesters were not, further fueling public criticism.

Before the Pride disruption, London Mayor Sadiq Khan expressed support for the right to peaceful and lawful protest, emphasizing the importance of groups like Just Stop Oil in holding those in power accountable.