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Italy’s PM deploys troops as nation faces widespread strikes and port blockades
NBC News • • general
Key Points:
- Tens of thousands of people protested across Italy, including Rome and Milan, against the rising cost of living and high military spending, with strikes called by trade unions affecting both public and private sectors.
- The Italian demonstrations were partly inspired by recent unrest in France and were accompanied by protests in other European countries such as Spain, Portugal, and Belgium, where clashes with police occurred.
- Protesters criticized government spending priorities, accusing officials of cutting welfare and services while increasing military expenditure, leading to widespread frustration over stagnant wages and inflation.
- Italian police maintained a strong presence with riot squads, drones, and helicopters, following recent violent incidents including the storming of the Colosseum and looting in Milan.
- Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned violence and vandalism, introducing stricter penalties for rioters and deploying 500 army troops to assist police in maintaining order until the end of the year.
