The Italian government is sending 500 soldiers to Milan after two days of clashes, looting, and vandalism in the city center

The Italian government plans to send an additional 500 soldiers to Milan after two days of protests marked by clashes with police, arson, looting and destruction in the city center. The measure is part of a security package that was due to be reviewed by the government on Tuesday.

Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini announced the deployment, saying the soldiers would help protect the city. Shops in commercial areas, including those on Via Montenapoleone, home to brands such as Chanel, Tiffany and Dior, closed early, removed products from their windows and installed protective panels.

The violence erupted after an initially peaceful demonstration against inadequate public services and the rising cost of living. Several shops, including Decathlon, Arc’teryx and Vodafone, were looted or vandalized. Police said 271 young people were detained on Sunday, with 32 arrested, including 23 minors.

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned the incidents and is considering tougher measures against youth gangs and extending the period of pretrial detention for minors. Protests and violent incidents were also reported in other Italian cities, including Bologna, Brescia, Bergamo and Turin, as well as in France and Belgium.