Italy’s Meloni condemns anti-Olympics protesters in Milan

Al JazeeraCenterEN 2 min read 100% complete by Al Jazeera Staff,News AgenciesFebruary 8, 2026 at 07:09 PM

AI Summary

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Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned anti-Olympics protesters as "enemies of Italy" following violence and alleged sabotage during the Milan Winter Games. The incidents, including railway cable cutting near Bologna, occurred on the first full day of competition. The Italian Transport Ministry launched a terrorism investigation into the sabotage, seeking millions in damages. Thousands protested in Milan against the Games' environmental and social impacts, citing excessive spending and ecological damage. Protests turned violent near Olympic venues, with police using tear gas and water cannons to disperse crowds. The IOC also criticized the violence, stating it has no place at the Games.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Bologna 40% Cortina d'Ampezzo 40% Italian Transport Ministry 50% International Olympic Committee (IOC) 60% Winter Olympics ×270% Milan ×570% Anti-Olympics Protesters ×270% Italy ×480% Giorgia Meloni ×290%

Keywords

winter olympics 100% anti-olympics protests 90% giorgia meloni 80% milan 70% protesters 60% public spending 50% ecological damage 50% sabotage 50% ioc 40%