UPDATE: In a surprising move, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents will play a security role during the upcoming Milan Cortina Winter Games, scheduled for February 6-22, 2026. This announcement has sparked significant controversy across Italy, with local officials expressing strong opposition.
Reports confirm that ICE agents, under the auspices of the U.S. Embassy in Rome, will assist in supporting diplomatic security details at the Winter Olympics. Authorities state that ICE’s Homeland Security Investigations division will collaborate with the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service to mitigate risks posed by transnational criminal organizations. However, ICE emphasized that “all security operations remain under Italian authority” and clarified that they will not conduct immigration enforcement operations abroad.
The news of ICE’s involvement has ignited backlash, particularly following the tragic recent killings of U.S. citizens Renee Good and Alex Pretti in Minneapolis, raising concerns about the agency’s presence in Italy. Milan Mayor Giuseppe Sala voiced strong opposition, declaring that ICE agents are “not welcome” in the city. In an interview with Italy’s RTL 102.5 radio, he 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 (US President Donald) Trump for once?”
The announcement comes as U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio are scheduled to attend the opening ceremony of the Olympics on February 6. The presence of ICE agents has raised discussions on the implications for international relations and security at the event.
As the situation develops, the international community is watching closely. The controversy surrounding ICE’s role is indicative of broader tensions regarding U.S. law enforcement’s engagement abroad. With heightened scrutiny and local opposition, the implications of this decision will resonate beyond the Olympic Games.
Authorities in Italy continue to assess the security landscape as the Winter Olympics approach. The decision to involve ICE at such a high-profile event underscores the complexities of international security collaboration and the potential for heightened tensions.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story. The presence of ICE agents at the Winter Games will undoubtedly remain a focal point of debate leading up to the event.
