US ICE Agents Attending Winter Olympics Sparks Outrage in Italy

As the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics approach, the involvement of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has sparked significant outrage in Italy. Scheduled to take place from February 6 to 22, 2026, the Games have become a focal point for discussions around security and international relations.

ICE’s Role at the 2026 Winter Olympics

The Department of Homeland Security has announced that ICE’s Homeland Security Investigations division will provide security support for U.S. delegations during the Olympic Games. Their main goal is to assess risks posed by transnational criminal organizations. However, ICE personnel will operate solely within U.S. diplomatic missions, according to officials.

Political Backlash

• Italian politicians have voiced strong opposition against the deployment of ICE agents in their country.
• Maurizio Lupi, from Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s party, called the decision “sheer idiocy.”
• Giuseppe Sala, the mayor of Milan, denounced ICE as “a militia that kills,” asserting that they are unwelcome in the city.

In response to the discontent, the Italian interior ministry emphasized that ICE would not be enforcing any law outside diplomatic premises. Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi plans to address parliament on February 4 to clarify the situation further.

Public Protests and Reactions

As tensions escalate, various groups have announced protests. The hard-left USB trade union plans to hold an “ICE OUT” rally coinciding with the Olympic opening ceremony. Other political factions, such as the centrist Italia Viva party led by former Prime Minister Matteo Renzi, are pushing for an outright ban on ICE personnel due to concerns they do not align with Italian values.

Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani urged a measured response, stating that the situation should not be equated with past atrocities. The U.S. Embassy in Italy has declined to comment on the unrest.

Historical Context

ICE has previously participated in security operations at international events, aiming to combat issues such as human and drug trafficking. This marks a continuation of U.S. efforts to ensure safety during significant global occasions, even amidst rising tensions.