"Once again, the men and women of law enforcement have had to face the violence of criminals who, even through organized groups, exploit demonstrations to seek conflict and sow chaos. My full solidarity and sincere thanks go to all of them," Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni wrote on social media, commenting on yesterday's clashes in Milan's squares and in several other cities.

The officers, Meloni added, "were there to protect the safety of citizens, workers, merchants, and all those who have the right to live in their city without fear and without seeing it ravaged by gangs of thugs. We are with you."

The mayor of the Lombardy capital, Beppe Sala, also spoke out about the events in Milan. He raised concerns about the management of order during the demonstration: "Especially in Piazza Duomo," Sala said, "there were a large number of extremely violent protesters and a small group of police officers. I have no qualms with the police commissioner, and indeed I do, with whom I work every single day, but I have the impression that the situation is being underestimated and that the forces available at the Milan police headquarters were inadequate." Sala also spoke of "extreme concern" about "spaces of protest that are indecipherable" that are seen in many cities around the world. But the mayor also condemned the violence: "The reasons for the protest were understandable. The violence against the police and the serious damage to the city are unjustifiable."

(Unioneonline)

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