Italy weighs sending army to patrol Milan streets after protests

The Italian government is considering deploying additional soldiers to Milan's streets under the "Strade Sicure" program following weekend protests and violence, a proposal long advocated by Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini. A government summit is scheduled for Monday at 12:00 at Palazzo Chigi. The meeting will include Premier Giorgia Meloni, deputies Antonio Tajani and Salvini, and relevant ministers. Beyond a decree addressing juvenile detention, the government is weighing increased military presence, though the exact number of additional troops remains undecided. Defense Minister Guido Crosetto has previously criticized using soldiers domestically, citing overseas commitments. Deploying troops would acknowledge Mayor Beppe Sala's criticism of insufficient police presence, intertwining with 2027 municipal election politics. The idea of holding a Cabinet meeting in Milan has been set aside for now, prioritizing legislative action and increased security forces.