Demonstrators in Milan protest ICE unit at Winter Olympics, criticizing ‘creeping fascism’

Demonstrators gathered in Milan to protest the deployment of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents ahead of the upcoming Winter Olympics, scheduled to begin in February 2026. The protests took place at Piazza XXV Aprile, a location significant for its historical connection to Italy’s liberation from Nazi fascism in 1945. Protesters expressed their opposition to what they termed "creeping fascism" in the U.S. and called for the removal of ICE agents from Italy during the international sporting event. Slogans such as "No ICE in Italy" were prominently featured, reflecting the demonstrators' concerns about civil liberties and the treatment of migrants. The Italian government has stated that it requested clarification from American diplomats regarding the role of ICE agents during the Olympics. According to the Department of Homeland Security (D.H.S.), ICE agents will assist in securing the U.S. Olympics delegation. However, Italian officials have emphasized that the agents' involvement will be limited to analytical tasks within U.S. diplomatic facilities and that fears about their role are "completely unfounded." Italy's interior minister assured the public that there would be no operational police role for ICE agents on Italian territory. The deployment of ICE agents at a global event like the Winter Olympics raises significant questions about national security and public perception, particularly regarding immigration policies and the involvement of foreign law enforcement in domestic affairs. The protests highlight ongoing tensions surrounding these issues, as major international gatherings often face scrutiny over their security measures. The situation underscores broader societal concerns about immigration enforcement practices on a global stage, particularly in the context of a sporting event that is meant to promote unity and peace.