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The Milan cost of living protests turned violent over the weekend as people took to the streets to express their anger over rising prices and economic problems. The demonstration near the famous Piazza del Duomo soon escalated, with some mostly young protesters reportedly throwing objects, setting fire to street bins and barricades, and damaging several shops in the city centre.
Police sent riot officers to the area and used tear gas and water cannons to disperse the crowds and restore order. The clashes left broken shop windows and damaged public property. Several police officers were reportedly injured after being attacked with stones, firecrackers, and pieces of pavement.
The protests began as a way for people to express their concerns about inflation and other economic problems. However, some hooded and masked participants reportedly turned the demonstrations violent. Their actions were similar to those seen during some protests in other parts of Europe.
milan cost of living protests
As tensions increased, some protesters targeted major shops, breaking windows and looting stores such as Carrefour, Levi’s, Under Armour, and other local businesses. The violence raised concerns among city officials and business owners about public safety.
The violence was quickly condemned by top political leaders in Italy. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni criticised the rioters, saying that people have the right to protest peacefully, but setting cities on fire is unacceptable. She said some people had used public anger over economic problems as an excuse to cause trouble and attack security officers.
Milan Mayor Giuseppe Sala also condemned the Milan cost of living protests turning violent. He said he understood people’s concerns about the economy but stressed that damaging public property and attacking police officers were not acceptable ways to show their anger.
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