RismadarVoice Reporters
January 28, 2026
News that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) will assist with security at the 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics has sparked mixed reactions across Italy.
Officials said ICE agents from the Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) unit will provide support to the U.S. State Department’s Diplomatic Security Service, focusing on intelligence-sharing and safeguarding foreign dignitaries and participants. Italian authorities will maintain full operational control.
Despite assurances, many Italians expressed concerns about ICE’s involvement. The agency’s reputation, particularly regarding enforcement actions in the United States, has raised public scepticism and apprehension.
Local leaders and opposition figures described the deployment as unnecessary, politically insensitive, cautioning that visible ICE officers could trigger protests. Analysts suggest this reaction reflects Italy’s broader sensitivity to foreign law enforcement presence, even in advisory capacities.
ICE officials maintained that their role will be strictly supportive, with no operational enforcement or immigration duties on Italian soil.
The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo is set to begin in February, with security preparations ongoing for athletes, officials, and spectators from around the world.
