Violent end to protest in Milan, police use water cannons

The end of Saturday's demonstration in Milan was marked by violent clashes between police and a group of masked protesters. About a hundred hooded people separated from the main gathering and began throwing flares and pyrotechnics at police officers, Reuters reported.

Security forces intervened with water cannons in an attempt to disperse the crowd and prevent further escalation. The incident took place in a city that will be one of the main venues for the 2026 Winter Olympics, which adds a sensitive dimension to the event.

The Milan authorities have long emphasized the need to maintain public order during protests, especially in the context of major international events. Although most of the demonstrators protested peacefully, the final riots reopened the debate on security measures and the line between legitimate protest and violence.

(reuters)