Clashes Erupt in Milan as Police Arrest Protesters During Winter Olympics

Mon Feb 09 2026 01:11:05 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Tensions flare in Milan on the first day of the Winter Olympics as six protesters are arrested following violent clashes with police. Demonstrators voice their opposition against the Games amidst concerns over cost of living and environmental issues.

On the opening day of the Winter Olympics in Milan, six individuals were arrested during protests that escalated into violence. Demonstrators, numbering in the thousands, expressed grievances against the Olympic Games and broader socio-economic issues, leading to conflicts with police. This unrest follows recent tightening of protest laws by the Italian government in response to earlier demonstrations. Amidst these tensions, officials are also investigating acts of sabotage impacting the country's railroad system.

Violence Marred Olympic Celebrations

On the opening day of the Winter Olympics, Milan became a battleground as violence erupted between protesters and police, resulting in six arrests. Thousands took to the streets to express their discontent not only towards the Games but also touching on various societal issues, including the rising cost of living.

Witnesses reported demonstrators setting off fireworks and engaging in clashes with law enforcement, who responded with water cannons to disperse the crowds. This unrest follows a previous protest in Turin that injured over 100 police officers, prompting the government to enforce stricter protest regulations.

Government's Response

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned the actions of the protesters, labeling them as the “enemy of Italy.” She criticized their disruptive behavior, especially in light of the efforts to showcase Italy positively to the world during the Olympics.

Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini called for increased security measures against the protesters, referring to them as “criminals” responsible for further violence that tarnishes the nation’s image. A recently fast-tracked security package now allows police to detain suspected troublemakers before demonstrations, which critics view as repressive.

Sabotage Investigations

As unrest unfolded in Milan, law enforcement also turned their attention to suspected acts of sabotage on northern Italy’s railway network. Significant disruptions were reported, including fires set on tracks and severed cables, which the transport ministry indicated could be linked to planned vandalism ahead of the Olympics.

Public Sentiment

Despite the violent clashes, many protesters voiced their grievances peacefully. Francesca Missana, a protest participant, expressed that the Olympic Games are now environmentally and socially unsustainable. Organizers emphasized that the financial resources spent on infrastructure for the Games could have been better allocated towards environmental conservation efforts instead.

The Winter Olympics are scheduled to run until February 22, with events spread throughout various locations in Italy, including Milan and the Dolomites.