BRUSSELS — Hundreds of protesters inspired by France’s “yellow vests” movement took to the streets of Brussels on Friday, stopping cars and blocking roads as they called for the country’s leader to resign.

What started out as a peaceful but unauthorized demonstration — with protesters in fluorescent vests gathering on the streets of Brussels on Friday morning — devolved into violent clashes between dozens of hooded demonstrators. When they began throwing rocks and road signs, the Belgian police used what they called “proportional violence” to restore order.