Italy: Protests in dozens of cities, clashes with police and eight arrested in Rome

A 24-hour general strike organized by the USB trade union brought protesters onto the streets of 70 Italian cities this Friday. Organizers said more than 1 million people took part in demonstrations opposing the rising cost of living, low wages and increased military spending.

Tensions flared in Rome, Milan, Turin and other cities. In the capital, protesters threw objects at police, erected barricades and tried to break through police lines to get closer to Parliament. Eight people were arrested during demonstrations in Rome.

Traffic disruptions were also reported in several cities. In Milan, protesters blocked the Eastern Ring Road for several hours; in Bologna, the ring road and part of the A1 motorway were closed for about three hours. Blockages were reported in Turin, while access to the port was obstructed in Genoa.

In Turin, police detained two people following incidents in Piazza Castello. Meanwhile, thousands of people took part in a peaceful protest in Florence.

The strike also affected healthcare, but minimum services and emergency medical care remained operational.

The mobilization took place amid disagreements with the government. Transport Minister Matteo Salvini had ordered the strike to be postponed, but USB opposed the decision and continued with the protests.