Italy’s Meloni condemns anti-Olympics protesters in Milan

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.

As the Winter Olympics began in northern Italy, authorities reported multiple incidents of sabotage targeting the region's railway network. On Saturday, police investigated three separate events, including a fire affecting rail infrastructure between Bologna and Venice, a damaged track switch near Pesaro, and severed electric cables with an explosive device near Bologna. The Italian Ministry of Transport labeled the incidents "serious sabotage," drawing parallels to similar acts during the Paris Olympics in 2024. The disruptions caused significant delays, particularly impacting Bologna, a major transport hub. While a police spokesperson confirmed an ongoing investigation, no one has claimed responsibility for the attacks. Despite the disruptions, Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini asserted that the incidents would not tarnish Italy's image.

The 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics opening ceremony commenced on Friday, February 6, 2026, across four sites. The ceremony, held in Milan, Italy, featured performances and tributes to Italian culture, including references to figures like da Vinci, Dante, Puccini, and brands like Armani and Fellini. Mariah Carey also performed. The event included the raising of the Italian flag and was attended by figures such as US Vice President JD Vance. The multi-site and two-cauldron approach is a unique feature of these Olympic Games.

Hours before the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympic Games on February 6, 2026, the Olympic torch relay concluded its journey through central Milan. Relay participants carried the torch in the final leg of its route. The flame's journey across Italy began in Rome in December. It traveled through all 110 Italian provinces. The relay culminated in Milan just prior to the commencement of the Olympic Games.