Italy deploys 500 soldiers to Milan as Europe braces for protests

Italy has deployed 500 additional soldiers to Milan ahead of planned protests on Saturday, following riots last week that involved looting and clashes with police. The deployment is part of broader security measures announced by Premier Giorgia Meloni, including tougher penalties for minors. The soldiers will support about 5,000 police officers in Milan, where authorities are using drone surveillance, railway checks, and online monitoring. Last week's violence involved about 2,000 young protesters, with 45 arrests, including 34 minors, and targeted stores near the central Duomo square. Protests are also scheduled across Europe, including in Rome, Tirana, Madrid, and Lisbon, addressing issues from anti-government sentiment to housing costs. In Milan, officials expressed concern about potential repeat violence, while some unions noted soldiers lack specialized training for public-order operations.