Italy sends 500 troops to Milan and tightens teen crime laws after riots

Italy approved a decree Tuesday toughening measures against minors involved in riots, following weekend clashes between protesters and police in Milan, where 80% of 271 detainees were minors. The package lowers criminal liability age to 14 and allows holding suspects up to 24 hours before public demonstrations. The government will also send 500 military personnel to Milan by year-end. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni announced a new crime of violent participation in protests, with penalties up to five years in prison and fines up to 20,000 euros. Parents may face punishment or be liable for damages caused by their children. The decree creates penalties of four to 12 years for organizing violent protest groups, including via digital means. In Lisbon, police dismantled a housing-rights protest camp Tuesday, detaining 55 people. Italian President Sergio Mattarella reportedly limited military powers, removing authority to make arrests.