European protests spread from Milan to Madrid as soldiers guard Italian cities

Thousands of protesters marched across European cities on Saturday, with soldiers guarding Milan's center as authorities sought to prevent a repeat of last week's violent clashes and looting in Italy. The Milan demonstration remained peaceful, though brief clashes occurred in Rome and Turin. Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni announced sending 500 additional soldiers to Milan and tougher penalties for minors, who police said comprised much of last week's violent protesters. Protests also occurred in Madrid, Lisbon, and Tirana over issues including pensions, housing, and corruption. In Albania, riot police used water cannons as protesters set government buildings on fire.