On Saturday in Milan, thousands gathered to protest the Winter Olympics just a day after the opening ceremony, igniting violent clashes with police. A radical group of about 100 protesters separated from the main crowd, throwing firecrackers, smoke bombs, and bottles at law enforcement. The situation escalated as police, equipped for riot control, responded with water cannons to disperse the agitated crowd, comprised mainly of individuals wearing hoodies and scarves to conceal their identities. After a brief period of chaos, order was restored, though several troublemakers were arrested.

The police were on high alert due to previous violent incidents at protests in Turin over the prior weekend, where over 100 police officers were injured. These ongoing protests highlight the rising tensions surrounding the Winter Olympics, which many view as exacerbating existing ecological and housing issues in the region. The combination of radical leftist activists and systemic socioeconomic grievances against the Olympiad has stirred considerable unrest.

Concerns revolve around the environmental impact and the displacement of local communities due to Olympic activities, a sentiment echoed by many protesters in Milan. The clash signifies a growing discontent among the populace, possibly setting the stage for continued protests as the games progress and local sentiment against the Olympics surfaces.