Protests against military shipments in Italy

Activists and the Unione Sindacale di Base (Usb) union initiated protests at the port of Livorno, Italy, targeting a vessel they alleged was transporting approximately 614 tons of explosives, drones, and other military supplies to the Sigonella military base in Sicily. While the Usb union called for strikes, the Prefecture and Coast Guard denied the presence of war materiel, stating the ship carried dangerous goods but no military equipment.

The protests moved to the port of Augusta, Sicily, where activists attempted to block the Portuguese merchant vessel Sunaid X, which was reportedly transporting weaponry from Livorno to Sigonella. Two sailing vessels, flying Polish and French flags, obstructed the cargo ship’s path.

Following an intervention by the Guardia di Finanza and patrol boats from Siracusa and Catania, the merchant vessel was escorted into the port. Ten individuals, including five Italian citizens and five foreign nationals, were reported to authorities for the interruption of a public service and violations of public safety and port regulations.