Italy's Meloni defends protest rules to prevent urban violence

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni defended new government measures on protest management, stating they aim to prevent violence while guaranteeing the right to demonstrate, following clashes in several Italian cities. In a social media post, Meloni said the cabinet-approved measures give the state more effective tools to prevent violence and stop criminals from "setting entire cities on fire," emphasizing security for peaceful protesters, workers, and residents. Meloni thanked law enforcement for their work during the day's protests, acknowledging attempts by violent individuals to provoke clashes, and expressed gratitude to Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi and other officials who coordinated public order operations.