Italy: Thousands take to the streets as protests turn violent in several cities
Tensions escalated in Italy on Saturday as thousands of protesters clashed with police in several cities, including Rome, Milan, Turin, and Naples. The demonstrations, which were sparked by rising living costs, low wages, and government policies, turned violent in some areas, with protesters throwing bottles, firecrackers, and smoke bombs at police.
In Rome, protesters marched through the city centre, confronting a police cordon and setting off firecrackers near Largo di Santa Susanna. Police responded with water cannons. In Milan, two separate demonstrations merged into a single large procession, with around 10,000 people participating. Tensions escalated in Turin as protesters clashed with police, prompting officers to deploy tear gas.
The Italian government has deployed hundreds of additional soldiers and stepped up security across major cities, following last weekend's clashes between protesters and police. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's government has ordered the deployment of an additional 500 soldiers to Milan, reinforcing the security forces already stationed in the city.
The protests are part of a nationwide movement, with demonstrations planned in several cities, including Naples and Florence. The "17 October Movement," which has been linked to the recent mobilisation, announced that previously advertised protest locations had been cancelled and that new meeting points would be communicated shortly before the marches.
The unrest has raised concerns about economic inequality, social exclusion, and the government's approach to public order. Authorities remain concerned that the demonstrations could bring together student movements, trade unions, and more radical activist groups, increasing the risk of further confrontations.
