Italy’s Cabinet approved 500 more soldiers for Milan and a new offense targeting violence at a demonstration Tuesday, tightening its response to unrest that has disrupted the city’s shopping district.
The additional troops will serve under the existing Strade Sicure security mission, Italy’s Defense Ministry said. They can be assigned immediately to patrols and to guard sensitive sites. The ministry said their presence would give police and Carabinieri more capacity to prevent crime and respond to incidents.
ANSA reported that the deployment is planned through Dec. 31, 2026, at a cost of €4.7 million.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said in a video outlining the decree that violent participation in a demonstration would become a separate offense. A conviction could bring up to five years in prison and a fine of up to €20,000. She also said parents would be responsible for damage caused by their minor children.
ANSA reported that the decree would allow preventive detention of minors aged 16 and older in specified circumstances, including disruptions to safety in crowded places.
Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani had said the soldiers would receive judicial police powers. The Defense Ministry later described their role as limited to duties already assigned under Strade Sicure, in coordination with police. ANSA reported that the approved decree did not grant soldiers judicial police functions.
Reuters reported that demonstrations over rising living costs and poor public services preceded the violence. During clashes near Piazza Duomo on Oct. 18, police used tear gas and water cannons after demonstrators damaged storefronts and set waste bins on fire, Reuters reported. ANSA, citing police sources, reported 32 arrests in connection with the clashes, including 23 minors.
ANSA reported that Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi said a Milan public-order committee was scheduled for Oct. 21 to set an action plan for the troops.
