Soldiers guard Milan as thousands protest across European cities

Thousands of young people marched in cities across Europe on Saturday, with soldiers guarding Milan's center as authorities sought to prevent a repeat of violent clashes and looting seen last week. Demonstrations occurred in Italy, Spain, Portugal, and Albania, with brief clashes reported in Rome and Turin. In Milan, thousands marched peacefully as 500 additional soldiers were deployed and luxury boutiques boarded up, though most shops reopened by late afternoon. Premier Giorgia Meloni announced tougher penalties for minors, who police said comprised many of last week's violent protesters, and authorities detained several minors preventively. Protests spanned issues including education, corruption, anti-war movements, pensions, and housing. In Albania, riot police used water cannons as protesters set government buildings on fire, while Madrid and Lisbon saw peaceful marches over pensions and housing costs.