Italy Deploys Troops Amid Violent Riots as France Escalates Security Measures

Italy plans to deploy 500 troops with enhanced police powers after a weekend of intense riots. The move signals a shift towards a more direct military approach compared to France, which has faced weeks of unrest.

Video footage over the weekend captured scenes of violence in both France and Italy. Demonstrators clashed with law enforcement amid fires and looting. In several incidents, police were forced to withdraw as they struggled to control the crowds.

In Paris, a dozen officers faced several hundred rioters but could not make arrests. They used rubber bullets and grenades to maintain distance as they retreated. Similarly, in Milan, Italian police withdrew as rioters hurled firecrackers, metal barriers, and glass bottles, aiming to take control of a public square.

Since last month, France has witnessed ongoing demonstrations, with rioters setting fire to schools and causing significant damage. French President Emmanuel Macron left riot-affected areas for a trip to the Gulf, amid rising political pressure.

An inquiry by Fox News Digital indicated the involvement of socialist and Islamic advocacy groups, along with environmental activists, in the French riots. Damage estimates exceed $1 billion. Videos show rioters waving foreign flags, including Palestinian and Albanian flags in Italy.

The Italian media noted that many rioters in Milan were first and second-generation migrants. In response to the escalating violence, France and Italy are reinforcing security with their armed forces. France’s gendarmes played a role in quelling last weekend’s riots, and the interior minister announced a military increase to prevent future riots.

France’s military forces, known as the Sentinelle, will substitute interior security forces to support police and gendarmerie in maintaining order. Upcoming French presidential elections have seen the riots potentially boosting right-wing candidate Marine Le Pen’s popularity.

In Italy, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has announced a similar military deployment plan. Italy will station 500 troops in Milan, with the deputy prime minister noting that they will have police powers to combat rioters.