Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto described Milan's weekend unrest as “hybrid warfare” Tuesday, blaming online influence as the government approved more troops and tougher penalties after violent demonstrations.
Crosetto said platforms including TikTok and YouTube were being used to wage unconventional conflict, The Independent reported. He warned that young people could receive a “counter-education” outside school and family, but named no group or government he believed was responsible.
The clashes followed demonstrations over living costs and public services, The Independent reported. Police said they detained 271 young people in Milan on Sunday and arrested 32 of them, including 23 minors. Shops were looted and property was damaged.
Businesses also took precautions against further unrest. Luxury retailers on Via Montenapoleone removed merchandise from their windows. Business group Confcommercio estimated damage, including lost revenue, at more than €1 million.
The Cabinet approved a security decree providing for 500 additional troops in Milan and a new protest offense. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said a conviction for violent participation in a demonstration could bring up to five years in prison and a fine of up to €20,000. ANSA reported that the planned troop deployment would run through Dec. 31 and cost €4.7 million.
Meloni also said parents would be responsible for damage caused by their minor children. Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini called for the troop reinforcement in a post on X.
Further demonstrations are planned for Saturday, Oct. 24, The Independent reported.
