Milan protesters call for U.S. ICE agents to leave Italy as Winter Games approach

Protests took place in Milan against the deployment of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents ahead of the upcoming Winter Olympics, scheduled for February 2026. Demonstrators gathered 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 displayed, reflecting widespread concerns about civil liberties and the treatment of migrants (NPR, Chicago Tribune, France24). The Italian government has addressed these concerns by clarifying the role of U.S. ICE agents during the Winter Olympics. According to Italian officials, ICE agents will not have an operational police role in Italy, and their involvement will be limited to analytical tasks within U.S. diplomatic facilities. Italy's interior minister emphasized that fears surrounding ICE's role are "completely unfounded" and assured the public that there would be no resemblance to the enforcement practices seen in the U.S. (The Hindu, Al Jazeera). The Department of Homeland Security (D.H.S.) indicated that ICE agents would assist in securing the U.S. Olympics delegation. The presence of U.S. 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 (Chicago Tribune, ESPN). Historically, major international gatherings have faced scrutiny over their security measures, which can lead to protests and public outcry, as seen in this instance (Al Jazeera, France24). As the Winter Olympics approach, the dialogue surrounding ICE's role may continue to evolve, reflecting deeper societal concerns about immigration and law enforcement practices on a global stage. The protests in Milan highlight ongoing tensions surrounding these issues, as demonstrators seek to address their apprehensions about civil liberties and the treatment of migrants in the context of an international event (ESPN, The Hindu).