Protests over housing and living costs spread to Lisbon and Milan

Protests over housing and living costs have spread from Spain and France to Italy and Portugal, with rioters clashing with police in Milan and a tent camp emerging in Lisbon. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned the violence, blaming "hooligans" for exploiting the demonstrations. In Milan, a peaceful march on Saturday turned violent as masked rioters threw stones at police and set barricades ablaze, prompting water cannon and teargas responses. At least two officers were injured and about 50 demonstrators detained, while Lisbon protesters vowed to stay overnight in Rossio square demanding housing action. Portuguese housing prices rose 124% between 2015 and 2024, double the EU average, fueling anger among younger residents. Similar unrest has hit Albania, where protests over university conditions turned violent, and Spain, where an eviction sparked a snap election call.