Italian soldiers deploy to Milan as protests over living costs continue

Italy has deployed 500 soldiers to Milan ahead of Saturday protests against Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's government and rising living costs, following last week's clashes and looting in the city. Demonstrations are planned in eight cities. The protests are driven by the newly formed 'October 17 Movement', alongside student groups and unions, which announced the events online. Police conducted raids this week against suspected looters, while organizers urge peaceful dissent, and authorities investigate the group's Instagram administrator. Last weekend's unrest led to 271 arrests, mostly minors, prompting Justice Minister Carlo Nordio to call for expanded youth detention capacity. The government also granted tax breaks to truck drivers after fuel-price roadblocks disrupted supplies in southern Italy.