Dem MP Mauro Berruto joins Turin protest, igniting split over dissent and violence

In Turin's Piazza Castello, Democratic parliamentarian Mauro Berruto joined the Askatasuna collective's march, stating he shares the demonstrators' concerns and wants to understand unfolding events. The former national volleyball coach and Scuola Holden CEO warned that militarising cities would exacerbate the problem, aligning with Elly Schlein's strategy of linking social protest with rights protection. His participation has drawn sharp rebuke from Forza Italia's Roberto Rosso and local Fratelli d'Italia leader Marco Fontana, who accuse him of standing beside violent elements.

Meanwhile, Avs deputy Marco Grimaldi, after visiting the Ferrante Aporti juvenile detention centre, urged reduced incarceration for the young people arrested during recent clashes and stressed their vulnerability. Italia Viva senator Silvia Fregolent and Fratelli d'Italia's Augusta Montaruli condemned the use of Molotov cocktails, arguing that such actions undermine legitimate protest. The incident highlights a growing split within the Italian centre-left over how to balance anti-cost-of-living activism with a stance against street violence.