Italy investigates Russian influence on protests and riots — report

“The level of violence and apparent coordination of some of the attacks prompted officials to ask whether it might be more than just a spontaneous expression of anger,” the report said.

Italy’s Defense Minister Guido Crosetto said the events in Milan and other parts of the country were “fundamentally different” from similar demonstrations in the past.

“They [the riots] are the product of what I call ‘hybrid warfare,’ which someone is bringing into our countries with unconventional tools that are called TikTok, social media and YouTube, without the West realizing or reacting,” Crosetto said.

He also said that children as young as 11 or 12 participated in the protests and had been exposed to what he called “counter-education.”

Meloni’s government announced measures aimed at preventing further violence. In Milan, where the protests were particularly violent, 500 military personnel are expected to be deployed.

Protests were held across Italy on Oct. 17 over the rising cost of living, higher fuel prices and tax pressures. The demonstrations turned into clashes with police in Milan, Turin, Bologna, and Bergamo. Protesters threw smoke grenades, bottles, and rocks at police. Officers used water cannons and tear gas.