Turin-Lyon high-speed rail protests spark large clashes

Protests against the Turin‑Lyon high‑speed rail (the “No TAV” movement) resumed over the weekend in Italy’s Val di Susa. Demonstrations attracted around 20,000 participants, most of them peaceful, but several incidents turned violent, leading to the closure of a section of the A32 motorway.

Police reports recorded more than 120 officers injured and over 400 protesters identified during the clashes. Media coverage varied: some outlets highlighted the confrontations and property damage, while others emphasized the size of the peaceful march and the broader opposition to the rail project. Public figures such as President Sergio Mattarella, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and the mayor of Turin issued statements condemning the vandalism and reaffirming state authority.