Milan Security Meeting After Riots; Mayor Warns of Delicate Saturday

Italian authorities held an emergency security meeting in Milan on Wednesday following weekend riots, with officials warning of a delicate situation ahead of Saturday's planned demonstrations. Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi described the unrest as "something never seen in the world." During the Prefecture meeting, Piantedosi defended police response, citing 343 detentions and 50 arrests, while rejecting criticism from Mayor Giuseppe Sala. Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini dismissed theories of organized conspiracy, claiming rioters were motivated by theft of luxury goods rather than political ideology. Mayor Sala expressed concern about potential clashes Saturday between rioters, counter-protesters, and anarchists, calling it a test for the city's security management. He urged against closing shops, emphasizing Milan's tradition of public participation.