Controversy Erupts Over ICE's Security Role at 2026 Winter Olympics
The involvement of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in security operations for the upcoming 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics has ignited a firestorm of controversy, drawing sharp criticism from Italian leaders, according to multiple sources. The Winter Games are scheduled to take place in Milan and Cortina D'Ampezzo from February 6-22.
Milan Mayor Giuseppe Sala expressed strong disapproval of ICE's presence, stating to Italian media outlet RTL Radio 102, "This is a militia that kills... A militia that enters into the homes of people, signing their own permission slips. It is clear they are not welcome in Milan, without a doubt," as reported by The Associated Press.
Despite the opposition, Tricia McLaughlin, a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) spokesperson, confirmed to TIME that ICE agents would be supporting U.S. security operations at the Winter Games. McLaughlin clarified that "ICE does not conduct immigration enforcement operations in foreign countries."
The controversy surrounding ICE's role comes amid broader scrutiny of the agency's activities. Vox reported that ICE has become increasingly militarized, particularly during Donald Trump's second term. According to Vox, agents in masks and plate carriers have been highly visible, with incidents in cities like Chicago and Minneapolis.
Meanwhile, in other news related to the global stage, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney saw a surge in popularity following a contentious exchange with President Donald Trump at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Time reported. Carney's criticism of American hegemony, delivered in a speech that appeared to reference the Trump administration, drew a sharp response from Trump, who asserted that "Canada lives because of the United States." Carney stood by his statements, rejecting Trump's assertion.
The 2026 Winter Olympics will also feature the debut of ski mountaineering, or skimo, as the only new sport at this year's Games, according to Time. Skimo combines ascending a snowy mountain on skis with the technical skill required to ski back down.
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