Thousands March Across European Cities in Weekend Protests

Thousands of young people marched in Italian cities Saturday, prompting heavy police and military deployment to prevent a repeat of last week's violent clashes and looting. Protests also occurred across Europe, from Madrid to Tirana. In Milan, Rome, and Turin, demonstrations were mostly peaceful, though brief clashes erupted in Rome and Turin. Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni added 500 soldiers to Milan and announced tougher penalties for minors, who police say comprised many of last week's violent protesters. The protests span issues including education, corruption, anti-war movements, pensions, and housing. In Tirana, riot police used water cannons as protesters set government buildings on fire, while Madrid and Lisbon saw peaceful marches over pensions and affordable housing.