500 soldiers in Milan after wave of disturbances

The Italian government has approved a new security decree following recent riots in various cities, mobilizing 500 military personnel to Milan. The decree, aimed at enhancing public safety and combating youth crime, introduces harsher penalties for violent participation in protests and expands preventive detention for known or suspected agitators, including minors. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni emphasized the need for these measures to prevent further violence, citing recent disturbances in Milan and other cities. The decree also establishes new penalties for those organizing violent protests via social media, with potential prison sentences of up to 12 years. The recent unrest has resulted in significant property damage, estimated at around one billion euros.