Truckers across Europe have staged protests against soaring fuel costs as war-related inflation squeezes the industry, reports London's S&P Global.

Transport unions mobilized drivers in Ireland, the UK, France, Germany, and Italy as diesel prices in the European Union climbed to EUR2.169 (US$2.56) per litre, up 33 percent since the Middle East conflict began, according to the International Road Transport Union.

Paolo Montrone of Kuehne + Nagel stated that small operators are most exposed, with thin margins putting their livelihoods at risk. The IRU warned that 2026 growth forecasts now appear unlikely, citing a fragmented and cost-intensive operating environment.

Italian truckers plan a nationwide strike from April 20 to 25, while Irish protests last week blocked oil supplies and the port of Galway. Demonstrations also occurred in Northern Ireland, Germany, and France, where unions demanded stronger relief measures. Governments have responded with tax cuts and subsidies, but industry groups argue that support remains insufficient.

Rising energy costs are accompanied by weakening economic indicators. The European Central Bank cut its 2026 GDP forecast to 0.9 percent, while the IMF downgraded the UK's outlook by half a percentage point. S&P Global reported that eurozone PMI data showed growth erased by surging energy prices, supply chain disruption, and falling demand, raising the specter of stagflation.