Lula and Bush – An American Samba

Potato bombs

In Sao Paulo, some 10,000 people spilled out along one of the city's broadest avenues, in the heart of the financial district, [people]banging drums, waving red flags and carrying banners reading "Bush Go Home".

Although largely peaceful, clashes flared between some of the protesters and police.

Fighting region's suspicions

Demonstrators threw rocks, fireworks and homemade "potato bombs" - [that were]made from gunpowder wrapped in foil - at some of the 4,000 police [who were]patrolling the streets during Mr Bush's visit.

Riot police responded by firing tear gas and lashing out with their batons.

At least 20 people, 16 of whom are reportedly policemen, were injured in the clashes.