US ICE Deployment for Milano-Cortina 2026 Olympics Raises Italian Concerns
Concerns have been raised in Italy regarding the deployment of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to assist US security operations for the 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics, which began on February 6. Italian political figures, local authorities, and the public have expressed strong opposition, prompting clarification from both US and Italian officials regarding the agents' specific roles.
These developments unfolded amidst public protests in Milan, some of which escalated into confrontations with police.
"ICE does not conduct immigration enforcement operations in foreign countries and that all security operations remain under Italian authority."
US DHS Confirms Deployment and Role
The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed the deployment, stating that ICE's Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) division would support the US Department of State's Diplomatic Security Service and the host nation. HSI's stated role is to vet and mitigate risks from transnational criminal organizations.
DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin and other US officials clarified that ICE does not conduct immigration enforcement operations in foreign countries, emphasizing that all security operations remain under Italian authority. It was further stressed that HSI investigators are specialized in investigations, not operational personnel involved in US immigration controls. They would collaborate in operations rooms rather than maintaining public order on the streets.
US embassy sources described this support for US diplomats and officials at major international events like the Olympics as historical practice. The US delegation, which included US Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, was scheduled to attend the opening ceremony on February 6. US officials confirmed that HSI agents were present to provide security for the US delegation within US diplomatic territory.
Strong Opposition from Italian Political Figures and Public
Italian political figures, including current and former lawmakers, expressed strong objections to the deployment. Former Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte called on the government to "set our own limits" and not allow the deployment, citing reports of "street violence and deaths" linked to ICE in the US.
Milan Mayor Giuseppe Sala stated that ICE agents were "not welcome in Milan," describing the agency as "a militia that kills" and questioning its alignment with Italian democratic security management methods. Veteran politician Carlo Calenda similarly asserted that ICE agents "must not set foot in Italy," characterizing the agency as "a violent, unprepared, and out-of-control militia." Alessandro Zan, a member of the European Parliament, also opposed their presence, stating that "In Italy, we don't want those who trample on human rights."
These concerns intensified following recent reports of incidents involving ICE agents in Minneapolis, including two fatal shootings of US citizens, and claims from Italian public broadcaster Rai journalists of threats while covering ICE activities. Petitions were launched by opposition parties, including the Green and Left Alliance (AVS) and Azione, to prevent ICE agents' entry and involvement. Some Americans residing in Milan also voiced surprise and concern regarding the US decision.
Italian Government Seeks Clarification Amidst Public Outcry
Italian Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi met with US Ambassador Tilman Fertitta. The Interior Ministry confirmed that ICE's investigative arm (HSI), not its operational immigration enforcement arm (ERO), would be present. Their work would be exclusively within diplomatic missions and not on the ground.
Minister Piantedosi initially appeared to be unaware of the specific involvement of US immigration officials but later stressed that "ICE will not operate on Italian territory."
Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani further addressed the concerns, clarifying that the agents would collaborate in operations rooms rather than maintaining public order on the streets. He emphasized that the deployed personnel are not involved in street operations comparable to those in Minneapolis and that the specific unit is responsible for counterterrorism efforts. Reports indicated that Italy's government had considered blocking ICE agent participation but noted it would deviate from standard protection protocols for US officials abroad. Cabinet meetings were held, providing assurances that the agents' responsibilities would be restricted.
Protests Escalate in Milan Ahead of Games
Leading up to and coinciding with the opening of the Winter Olympics, hundreds of protesters gathered in Milan's Piazza XXV Aprile. Organized by leftist and center-left parties, including the Democratic Party, CGIL trade union, and ANPI organizations, the demonstrations focused on the presence of US ICE agents. Protesters carried banners expressing opposition and equating the agency with fascism.
A separate, larger peaceful march involving thousands of people also occurred on Saturday. This protest primarily focused on two issues: the perceived environmental impact of the Olympics, with concerns raised about trees cut for a new bobsled run in Cortina, and the presence of US ICE agents.
Following the dispersal of the main protest, a smaller group of demonstrators engaged with police near the Olympic Village. Protesters reportedly threw flares, stones, fireworks, and used smoke bombs, prompting police to deploy batons, water cannons, and tear gas to disperse the crowd. Police intervened to prevent the group from accessing a highway near a Winter Olympics venue and from reaching the Santagiulia Olympic ice hockey rink. Multiple arrests were reported.
Italy has deployed approximately 6,000 security personnel across Olympic sites for the duration of the Games.