Hundreds of Italian soldiers deployed as thousands protest in Milan
The Italian government has deployed hundreds of soldiers to Milan following large-scale protests against the rising cost of living and the right-wing government. Approximately 10,000 people marched in the city, marking a significant escalation in civil unrest.
Why it matters
The deployment of military forces to manage domestic protests highlights growing political instability and economic dissatisfaction in Europe.
The Italian government sent hundreds of soldiers to the country’s fashion and financial hub ahead of anticipated unrest.
x whatsapp-stroke copylink google Add Al Jazeera on Google info A spontaneous demonstration against the rising cost of living in Milan on Saturday, a week after protests ended in clashes and looting in northern cities [Yara Nardi/Reuters] By Michele Bertelli Published On 24 Oct 2026 24 Oct 2026 Milan, Italy – Thousands of protesters took to the streets across Italy to demonstrate against Giorgia Meloni’s right-wing government and the rising cost of living, a week after clashes with police and looting during demonstrations in Milan.
Protests were called in eight Italian cities on Saturday, including the fashion and finance capital, Milan, where the government deployed hundreds of soldiers.
As soldiers spread out and luxury boutiques were boarded up, two demonstrations marched through the streets of the northern city.
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15 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
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