BREAKING: U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents will play a security role during the upcoming Milan Cortina Winter Games in Italy from February 6-22, 2026, sparking widespread controversy. Reports confirm that ICE will support diplomatic security efforts, but details have ignited strong reactions from Italian officials and citizens alike.
The announcement comes as ICE and the U.S. embassy in Rome confirmed their presence to major news outlets, including the Associated Press and France’s AFP. ICE stated, “At the Olympics, ICE’s Homeland Security Investigations is supporting the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service and host nation to vet and mitigate risks from transnational criminal organizations.” However, ICE emphasized that “all security operations remain under Italian authority,” insisting that they will not conduct immigration enforcement abroad.
Local authorities in Milan expressed shock and dismay, with Mayor Giuseppe Sala declaring that ICE agents are “not welcome” in the city. In a pointed interview with Italy’s RTL 102.5 radio, Sala stated, “This is a militia that kills … It’s clear that they are not welcome in Milan, there’s no doubt about it. Can’t we just say no to (U.S. President Donald) Trump for once?” His comments reflect the ongoing tensions surrounding U.S. law enforcement’s role abroad.
The news of ICE’s involvement follows recent violent incidents in the U.S., including the tragic killings of citizens Renee Good and Alex Pretti in Minneapolis. The presence of U.S. agents at this international event has stirred fears and criticisms related to their enforcement practices.
As the Winter Olympics approach, officials from both nations are under pressure to clarify the scope of ICE’s role. U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marc Rubio are scheduled to attend the opening ceremony, further elevating the stakes as the situation develops.
This urgent update is unfolding against a backdrop of rising tensions around international policing, and the potential implications for diplomatic relations are significant. With the eyes of the world on Milan, the controversy surrounding ICE’s presence is likely to intensify as the Games approach.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as officials navigate the complexities of international security and diplomatic relations.
