Rioting in Milan caused by ‘hybrid war’ against the West, says Italian defence minister
Following violent cost-of-living protests and riots in Milan, Italy's defence minister attributed the unrest to a 'hybrid war' waged against the West via social media and disinformation. In response, the Italian government is planning stricter security measures, including expanded police detention powers for minors and the deployment of additional army troops.
Why it matters
It reflects growing European anxieties over foreign interference, domestic social unrest, and governments tightening civil security measures.
Luxury brands including Chanel, Tiffany and Dior have removed merchandise from their windows in the Italian city
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A weekend of rioting and violence in Milan was caused by a “hybrid war” being waged against the West, Italy’s defence minister warned on Tuesday.
Days of unrest in Italy has seen demonstrators clash with police, loot shops and vandalise property after peaceful protests over the cost of living and public services turned violent.
“The events in Milan and elsewhere in Italy are fundamentally different from those seen in other eras,” Guido Crosetto said.
“They are the product of what I call 'hybrid warfare'—a form of conflict being waged against our nations through unconventional tools like TikTok, social media, and YouTube.”
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