Security forces were deployed across Italy on Thursday ahead of planned demonstrations, following a weekend marked by violent clashes in Milan. The government of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, known for its hard-right stance, recently approved stringent security measures in response to the unrest, drawing comparisons to similar protests in France.

In Milan, heightened security was visible in the city center, where surveillance helicopters monitored Piazza del Duomo, groups of soldiers patrolled on foot, and military vehicles, including a water cannon, were stationed nearby. The presence of security forces underscored authorities’ intent to prevent further disorder as protests were expected to continue.

Last weekend’s demonstrations, which included riots and looting on Via Torino and other areas, sparked concern among local businesses. Some shops boarded up windows and closed in anticipation of renewed unrest, while others chose to remain open with contingency plans in place. Employees like Mariusz Chrupek, who works at the Rinascente department store near Piazza del Duomo, expressed apprehension about potential looting but indicated they would keep operating if the situation remained calm. Meanwhile, some local residents and visitors also voiced unease; Laia Gonzalez, a visitor from Spain, said she had considered altering her itinerary due to fears of violence but proceeded with her plans.

The protests have drawn participants from various sectors, including students, truck drivers, and farmers, who are voicing grievances related to budget cuts and rising living costs—especially housing and fuel prices. Student organizations have criticized the government’s handling of public order and pressed for greater attention to their demands.

In response to the incidents, Milan saw the deployment of 500 soldiers to reinforce police efforts. The government passed a decree easing detention rules for minors involved in protests and introduced fines holding parents financially responsible for damages caused by their children during demonstrations. Authorities also conducted dozens of searches and arrested a 30-year-old suspect believed to be a leading figure behind the "October 17 Movement," which had called for Saturday’s protests.

In parallel with security initiatives, the government approved financial aid measures for truck drivers and fishermen to help offset recent fuel cost increases following the outbreak of the Middle East conflict. These developments came after prolonged truck blockades in southern Italy disrupted fuel and food supplies for about a week but were recently lifted, easing shortages in affected areas.