Italy makes parents liable for children's vandalism, deploys troops to Milan

Italy approved a sweeping security package imposing prison terms for violent protest participation, fines for rioters, and financial liability for parents of minors who vandalize or loot, following weekend unrest in northern cities. The measures take effect immediately. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni defended the crackdown, stating vandalism and theft are criminality, not protest. New rules allow up to five years in prison and €20,000 fines for groups of five or more endangering public safety, with tougher penalties for concealed faces or injuries. Police can also detain teens aged 14-17 deemed dangerous. The government deployed 500 army troops to Milan through 2026 amid anticipated Saturday protests. The unrest coincides with truck driver roadblocks in southern Italy over rising diesel costs, disrupting supply chains and halting some pasta production, as Meloni faces economic pressures ahead of 2027 elections.