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Italy’s government is preparing to deploy 500 troops in Milan following clashes between protesters and police and looting at shops. Several luxury brand outlets in the fashion capital have also been closed amid security concerns.
The proposal to deploy the troops could be approved at a cabinet meeting on Tuesday, October 20. The government may also grant soldiers temporarily assigned to public order duties certain police powers.
Clashes between protesters and police continued for two days on Saturday and Sunday. Hundreds of demonstrators were detained, while dozens of police officers were injured.
Several shops in Milan, known internationally for its fashion industry, were looted. Some outlets have remained closed this week, while others have removed display items and tightened security. Further protests are feared on Saturday.
The government is also considering tougher measures to curb unrest, including restrictions on public gatherings, easing rules on the detention of minors and introducing stricter penalties for their parents.
Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini described the clashes as “shameful”. Speaking to RTL 102.5 radio, he said the cabinet would announce several “immediate measures”, including the possible deployment of troops.
Defence Minister Guido Crosetto said on Monday he hoped the cabinet would approve provisions allowing soldiers to perform duties similar to those of law enforcement officers.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni called those involved in Saturday’s violence “thugs”. She accused them of exploiting protests to spread disorder, attack security personnel and hold the city hostage.
“Protesting is a right. But destroying our cities is not,” Meloni wrote on social media platform X.
Students, farmers and truck drivers across Italy have been protesting against the rising cost of living. With elections due next year, the economy, security and immigration could become key campaign issues for Meloni’s right-wing government.
