Milan: Protests Erupt Against 2026 Winter Olympics, Police Use Tear Gas
Violent clashes occurred in the streets of Milan on Saturday, as Italian police deployed tear gas and water cannons to disperse hundreds of protesters opposing the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina.
The protests highlighted demands to halt the negative environmental impacts of the games and expressed opposition to the involvement of American security personnel tasked with protecting officials during the event.
Initially peaceful demonstrations, involving thousands of local residents, escalated into riots when protesters attempted to access nearby highways leading to Olympic venues, including the ice hockey stadium in Santa Giulia.
Despite the use of tear gas by authorities, smaller groups continued to protest, launching smoke bombs and firecrackers from bridges near the Olympic construction sites.
The day began with peaceful protests where demonstrators displayed signs criticizing the environmental impact of the games and the presence of U.S. security in Italy, drawing support from families and students.
Criticism was also directed at U.S. Congressman JD Vance during the opening ceremony of the Milan-Cortina Games, where he was booed by the crowd at San Siro Stadium when he appeared on the big screen with his wife.
In contrast, athletes received a warm welcome, particularly the Ukrainian team, which was enthusiastically greeted by the Italian audience.
It is noteworthy that Vance arrived in Milan last Thursday, attended a women's ice hockey match, and held discussions with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
The protests also saw hundreds of students marching against the presence of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials as part of the security team, sparking widespread debate in the city.
On the same day, the Israeli team faced boos from the crowd, while the Ukrainian team was met with applause, reflecting the political and social polarization in the country amid rising protests against American security involvement in the global event.
Will these protests signal the beginning of greater criticism as the Olympics unfold in Milan?
The coming days may reveal more about the evolving conflict between protesters and the Italian government.
