Italy

Protests have occurred in multiple Italian cities over the rising cost of living and low wages. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed support for police forces after reports of violence during the demonstrations.

Reports indicate that street clashes and riots occurred in the Italian cities of Milan, Turin, and Bologna. Premier Giorgia Meloni addressed the unrest, calling for a unanimous refusal of such actions and criticizing the opposition's response.

Protests against the rising cost of living and international conflicts turned violent in central Milan, leading to clashes between police and demonstrators. Authorities utilized tear gas and water cannons to manage crowds, including a group of hooded protesters that entered the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.

Demonstrations occurred in Milan as part of a multi-country wave of protests across Europe against rising living costs, low wages, and deteriorating public services. The events in Italy followed reports of significant violent unrest in neighboring France.

Hauliers and farmers in Southern Italy are protesting rising fuel costs and falling oil prices. The demonstrations have reportedly caused fuel shortages and impacted supermarket supplies across the region.

Violent clashes were reported to have erupted during protests in northern Italy on October 18, 2026. Detailed information regarding the cause or specific groups involved was not provided in the source.

News reports indicate that rising costs of living are driving mass protests across Europe. Specific incidents described include housing-related demonstrations in Portugal and reports of buildings being torched during violent demonstrations in France.

Approximately 550,000 protesters demonstrated across France on Saturday. The events involved reports of looting at luxury stores and clashes with riot police, prompting a response from President Macron.

Roughly 550,000 protesters gathered across French streets on Saturday, October 17, 2026. The event involved reports of looting in luxury stores and clashes with riot police, prompting President Emmanuel Macron to vow punishment for rioters.

Protesters demonstrating against the rising cost of living clashed with police in central Milan on Saturday. Incidents of looting and property fires were reported in the Piazza del Duomo area and a luxury shopping arcade. Authorities deployed tear gas and water cannons, leading to reported arrests and injuries, while the Duomo metro station was closed during the unrest.