Protests erupted in Milan, Italy, where approximately 5,000 demonstrators gathered to voice their concerns over environmental issues related to the Winter Olympics ongoing in the country. According to reports from Corriere della Sera, protesters held signs depicting trees cut down for the venues and expressed their discontent with the Olympics' impact on the local ecosystem. The demonstrations were primarily peaceful, aimed at raising awareness about environmental degradation, yet tensions arose with law enforcement as a small group of protesters initiated violence by launching fireworks and throwing stones.

In response to the aggression from certain demonstrators, Italian police utilized tear gas and water cannons to disperse the crowd. Reports from local media, including La Repubblica, detailed that the protests were largely non-violent, apart from the incidents of unrest. One of the main focal points of the demonstration was also opposition against US immigration and customs officials (ICE) who were present in Italy due to the Olympic events, highlighting broader frustrations about unsettled local issues exacerbated by the international occasion.

The authorities managed to prevent protesters from breaching security at the Santagiulian ice hockey arena, indicating a readiness to enforce order during a time of celebration. This clash brings to light the ongoing debate surrounding the environmental costs of hosting major sporting events and reflects a growing sentiment among local communities that express discomfort with the prioritization of global sports competitions over ecological concerns.