The United States is deploying agents from the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to assist with security operations during the upcoming Winter Olympics in Milan, Italy, scheduled from February 6 to February 22, 2026. This decision has prompted significant backlash among Italian officials and citizens, particularly in light of recent violent incidents involving ICE agents in the U.S.

Milan's Mayor Giuseppe Sala has publicly opposed the presence of ICE agents, stating they are not welcome due to their association with violence and concerns over immigration enforcement practices. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani attempted to alleviate fears by clarifying that while ICE will be involved, their role will not include visible operations on Italian streets; instead, they will provide support from behind the scenes. He emphasized that local police forces would maintain responsibility for public order during the Games.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security confirmed that all security measures at the Olympics would be managed by Italian authorities, with ICE's involvement focused on counter-terrorism efforts rather than immigration enforcement outside of the United States. A spokesperson indicated that ICE's Homeland Security Investigations unit would collaborate with other federal agencies and Italian authorities to address potential risks related to transnational criminal organizations.

Despite these reassurances, skepticism remains high among many Italians regarding ICE’s involvement at such a prominent international event. Critics have raised concerns about human rights violations linked to ICE's operations in the U.S., leading some opposition parties in Italy to initiate petitions urging the government to prevent ICE's participation altogether.

Italy’s Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi expressed uncertainty about specific personnel deployments but reiterated that no ICE agents would operate independently within Italy without proper communication regarding their roles. As preparations for the Winter Games continue, tensions surrounding this issue reflect broader political dynamics between U.S. authorities and European allies amid ongoing discussions about security cooperation and immigration policies.

Original Sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

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