A mural depicting Donald Trump in protective gear appeared near Milan’s Winter Olympics venues ahead of Friday’s opening ceremony.
Trump Mural Sparks Attention
A mural by artist aleXsandro Palombo shows U.S. President Donald Trump in a bulletproof vest marked “POLICE ICE” and an “ICE” baseball cap, holding an Olympic wheel. It was published by Reuters near Bastioni di Porta Volta in Milan before the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Games.
ICE Protests Erupt in Milan
Hundreds demonstrated against the presence of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials in Italy and street closures for the Olympic opening. Chants included “ICE go home” and signs reading “ICE should be in my drink, not my city.” Protesters used whistles and flares.
Olympic Ceremony Underway
The XXIV Winter Olympic opening ceremony began Friday at 20:00 CET at Milan’s San Siro Stadium. Over 50 heads of state, including Polish President Karol Nawrocki and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, attended. Artist Marco Balich produced the “Harmony” performance featuring 1,200 participants, including La Scala ballet. Laura Pausini sang the Italian anthem; performers included Mariah Carey, Andrea Bocelli, and rapper Ghali.