Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has taken a strong stance against the anti-Olympics protesters, whom she has described as ‘enemies of Italy.’ This statement follows a weekend of violent clashes in Milan coinciding with the first full day of competition at the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Games. The protests, involving around 10,000 individuals, were primarily driven by concerns over the environmental and economic implications of the Games, as well as the controversial involvement of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) personnel in the event's security, highlighting the societal friction surrounding the Olympics.

During the protests, a large number of demonstrators peacefully marched, voicing their opposition to the Games. However, tensions escalated when a smaller faction broke away and engaged in violent confrontations with law enforcement, prompting the police to respond with tear gas and water cannons in an attempt to disperse the crowd. The government's response has been framed as a defense of national pride and values, contrasting the actions of the disruptive minority with the ostensibly peaceful intentions of the majority of protestors.

Meloni's remarks reflect a broader political narrative that seeks to reinforce support for the Olympics amid rising public dissent. By labeling the dissenters as ‘enemies of Italy,’ she positions the government and the upcoming Games as symbols of national unity and progress, potentially risking further alienation of protest groups who feel their voices are not being heard in the face of an event many consider to have detrimental effects on society and the environment.