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Milan Protests Turn Violent Over Living Costs and Wars
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News18•18-10-2026, 09:36
Milan Protests Turn Violent Over Living Costs and Wars
- •A demonstration in Milan against rising living costs and wars turned violent on Saturday, resulting in clashes with police, store lootings, and property fires in the city centre.
- •Police deployed water cannons and tear gas to disperse crowds, forcing the evacuation of Piazza del Duomo and a nearby luxury shopping arcade.
- •At least two police officers sustained injuries, and approximately 50 demonstrators, including many minors, were detained following the unrest.
- •Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Milan Mayor Giuseppe Sala strongly condemned the violence, distinguishing peaceful protest rights from destructive acts.
- •The Milan clashes coincided with widespread protests across France over economic grievances, living costs, and public services that also escalated into violence.
Key Questions Answered
The demonstrations in Milan were organized to protest against wars and the rising cost of living.
Around 50 demonstrators, including many minors, were detained by authorities following the violent unrest in Milan's city center.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned the violence by stating that setting cities ablaze is not a right, while Milan Mayor Giuseppe Sala noted that while the grievances were understandable, the destruction and violence against law enforcement were unjustified.
