Controversy Erupts Over U.S. ICE's Role at Italy Winter Olympics

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) involvement in the upcoming Winter Olympics in Italy has sparked criticism from Italian politicians. ICE's Homeland Security Investigations division is set to assist with security, but its presence has provoked protests and political discontent, highlighting tensions over its controversial record.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers are set to join the security operations at the Winter Olympics in Italy, as reported by a U.S. embassy insider on Tuesday. The confirmation follows earlier media reports and has stirred discontent among some Italian political figures.

Despite ICE's controversial reputation due to its role in enforcing former President Donald Trump's strict immigration policies, ICE's Homeland Security Investigations division will assist without engaging in immigration activities at the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics from February 6 to 22. Their presence aims to manage risks from transnational crime, according to the embassy source, who chose to remain anonymous.

Local criticism is mounting with Maurizio Lupi, a coalition leader, condemning the move, and Milan's mayor expressing strong opposition. Meanwhile, Italia Viva, an opposition party, demands barring ICE due to its perceived association with violence and rights violations, further fueling the protests planned by the USB trade union on the Olympic's opening day.

(With inputs from agencies.)