Italy deploys troops as cost-of-living protests hit Milan and other cities

· Politics · Italy

Italy deployed hundreds of soldiers in Milan and other cities as thousands protested over the cost of living, with clashes reported in Turin, Rome and Bologna. Soldiers were sent to Milan and luxury boutiques boarded up after last week's looting and clashes. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni announced measures including 500 additional soldiers for the city and tougher penalties, and her government approved security reforms this week. Student groups have criticized the public order response and urged cuts to military spending in favor of education.

Why it matters：Italy's militarized response to economic protest signals how European governments are turning to security measures amid rising social tension.

Key points

  • Hundreds of soldiers deployed to Milan.
  • Clashes reported in Turin, Rome and Bologna.
  • Meloni added 500 soldiers and tougher penalties.

Sources (original reporting)

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