Daijiworld Media Network - Milan
Milan, Jan 28: Outrage is mounting in Italy over reports that US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents will be deployed to assist American security operations during next month’s Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics.
Several current and former lawmakers have urged Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to intervene and block the agents’ presence, especially following two fatal shootings in Minneapolis during an intensified immigration crackdown in the United States.
The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed the reports, stating that ICE will serve “a security role” at the Games. However, officials clarified that the agency will not conduct immigration enforcement operations on foreign soil.
“ICE’s Homeland Security Investigations is supporting the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service and host nation to vet and mitigate risks from transnational criminal organizations,” DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin said.
A State Department spokesperson noted that federal agencies have previously supported US diplomatic security at past Olympics, and added that the Diplomatic Security Service is leading the security effort in Milan.
Italy’s Interior Ministry confirmed that ICE’s investigative arm — and not its operational enforcement unit — will be involved at the event. Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi met US Ambassador Tilman Fertitta on Tuesday, after which the ministry stated that ICE personnel would work exclusively within diplomatic missions and not operate on the ground.
“It is important to reiterate that Homeland Security Investigation investigators will not be represented by operational personnel like those engaged in immigration controls in the US, but by representatives exclusively specialized in investigations,” the ministry said.
Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani sought to calm concerns, saying the agents would not be patrolling streets or maintaining public order.
“They’re coming to collaborate in the operations rooms,” Tajani said, adding that the unit involved was focused on counterterrorism.
Despite the assurances, opposition leaders and local officials strongly criticised the move. Former Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte said Italy must “set its own limits” and not allow ICE agents to operate in the country.
“We cannot allow this… Enough with the bowing,” Conte posted on social media.
Milan Mayor Giuseppe Sala also opposed the deployment, declaring that the city “doesn’t need ICE” for Olympic security.
“This is a militia that kills… They’re not welcome in Milan,” Sala said, questioning whether Italy could ever say “No” to US President Donald Trump.
Veteran politician Carlo Calenda echoed the sentiment, warning that ICE agents “must not set foot in Italy,” calling the force “violent” and “out of control.”
The controversy has triggered petitions and public criticism in Italy, with growing concerns over the aggressive tactics used by ICE in the US and questions over the agency’s role and authority during an international sporting event.