Italy approves security decree and sends 500 troops to Milan after weekend riots

Italy's cabinet approved a package of security measures on Tuesday, including sending 500 troops to Milan until the end of the year, after weekend riots in the city's central shopping district. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni unveiled the decree, which takes effect immediately and creates a new offence of violent participation in public demonstrations, tougher penalties for rioters, and financial liability for parents whose children take part in vandalism and looting. Unrest began Saturday during a rally over living costs and school conditions, when groups of mainly young people looted shops, smashed windows and clashed with police; clashes resumed Sunday, with riots also reported in Bologna and Turin. Meloni said vandalism and theft are criminality, not protest.

Alternative outlets lead with the decree's details and note the cabinet did not give soldiers extra policing powers after opposition from President Sergio Mattarella, leaving the army's role unclear. Right-leaning outlets say the troops will have judicial police powers, citing Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, and stress the violence and the French unrest. The left-leaning excerpt confirms only the measures and the damage.