Full Breakdown
Protests Erupt in Milan Against ICE Presence at Winter Olympics
2/1/2026, 3:53:02 AM
Demonstrators Rally Against ICE Deployment
On January 31, 2026, hundreds of demonstrators gathered in Milan's Piazza XXV Aprile to protest the deployment of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents during the upcoming Winter Olympics, scheduled to take place from February 6 to 22. The protest was organized by left-leaning political groups, including the Democratic Party and the CGIL trade union confederation, and drew attention to broader concerns about human rights and perceived authoritarianism in the U.S.
Protesters expressed their discontent through banners and chants, with slogans such as "ICE = Gestapo" and "Ice only in Spritz," a humorous reference to a popular Italian aperitif. Many participants echoed sentiments of solidarity with victims of ICE actions in the U.S., particularly in light of recent fatal shootings involving ICE agents in Minnesota. Milan Mayor Giuseppe Sala publicly condemned the presence of ICE, stating, "This is a militia that kills, a militia that enters into the homes of people," emphasizing that such forces are unwelcome in Milan.
Context of the Protests
The protests were sparked by the announcement that ICE agents would assist in security operations for the U.S. delegation at the Winter Olympics. While U.S. officials clarified that these agents would not engage in immigration enforcement and would operate in a limited investigative capacity, the backlash in Italy was significant. Many Italians viewed the deployment as a symbol of "creeping fascism," particularly in the wake of violent incidents involving ICE in the U.S.
Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi has been called to testify in Parliament regarding the deployment, reflecting the political ramifications of the situation. The protests also highlight a growing unease in Italy about the implications of U.S. policies on human rights and governance.
Official Statements & Responses
Milan Mayor Giuseppe Sala stated, "It is clear they are not welcome in Milan, without a doubt," reinforcing the city's opposition to ICE's involvement. Conversely, U.S. officials, including representatives from the Department of Homeland Security, have maintained that ICE's role is strictly limited to security and does not involve immigration enforcement.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of the ICE deployment, including protesters and local leaders, have articulated concerns that the presence of U.S. agents could undermine Italy's democratic values. Protesters like Silvana Grassi expressed deep emotional distress over the actions of ICE in the U.S., stating, "It makes me want to cry to think of it. It’s too terrible." Others, like Paolo Bortoletto, acknowledged the agents' non-enforcement role but insisted, "We don’t want them in our country. We are a peaceful country. We don’t want fascists."
What's Next
As the Winter Olympics approach, the Italian government is under pressure to address public concerns regarding ICE's role. The opening ceremony will be attended by high-profile U.S. officials, including Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, further intensifying the scrutiny on the event and the involvement of U.S. federal agencies.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This is a militia that kills, a militia that enters into the homes of people, signing their own permission slips,” — Giuseppe Sala, Mayor of Milan
- “Even if it’s not the same ones, we don’t want them here,’’ Grassi said.” — Silvana Grassi, Protester
- “We believe they are doing the same thing the fascists were doing in the 1930s and 1940s.” — Francesco Tattoni, Protester
- “All the videos are public and everyone can see what's happening,” — Bruna Scanziani, Protester
