Italy sends 500 troops to Milan after violent cost-of-living protests

Italy's government approved sending 500 troops to Milan and new legal penalties to quell cost-of-living protests that turned violent in northern cities over the weekend. The measures include a new offence for violent demonstration participation and tougher riot penalties. The cabinet's Tuesday decision introduces up to five years in prison and €20,000 fines for endangering public safety in groups of five or more, with parents liable for minors' vandalism. Police can now detain youths aged 14-17 posing a danger, though soldiers were not given policing powers after presidential opposition. The unrest echoes violent protests in France and follows truck driver roadblocks in southern Italy over diesel prices. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni faces pressure ahead of 2027 elections as protesters say rising costs are pushing families into poverty.