Thousands gathered in Milan on Saturday to protest against the Winter Olympics, just a day after the opening ceremony in the northern Italian city. The protests turned violent when a splinter group of around 100 demonstrators separated from the main crowd, launching firecrackers, smoke bombs, and bottles at police. Law enforcement, equipped for riot control and with shields, responded with water cannons to disperse the group, some of whom wore hoodies and scarves to conceal their identities. Order was restored within a few minutes, but tensions remained high.

The protests reflect growing discontent and opposition to the Olympic Games in Milan, underscored by a recent weekend of violent demonstrations in Turin, where more than 100 police officers were injured. The events in Milan were a continuation of this unrest, signaling a strong reaction from certain segments of the population against the massive expenditures and perceived disruptions caused by hosting such a grand event. As the host city for the Olympics, Milan is facing scrutiny and backlash from those who question the necessity and implications of the Games.

Authorities were on high alert following last weekend's violence, suggesting a serious concern for public safety during the sporting event. Multiple arrests were made during the Milan protests, highlighting the tensions that can arise during large public gatherings, especially in the context of controversial issues like the Olympics. The situation in Milan is indicative of a broader conversation about the impact of major international events on local communities, and whether the benefits truly outweigh the costs.