Olympics Rage, Deadly Storms, and Global Unrest

Winter Olympic Games in Milan were marred by protests and geopolitical tensions on Saturday, while other parts of the world faced severe weather events and hybrid warfare threats. Italian police used tear gas on protesters demonstrating against the Games, while heavy snowfall in Japan claimed at least 45 lives. Meanwhile, the German army in Lithuania reported hybrid attacks from Russia.

In Milan, the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics became a focal point for expressions of discontent. Jeers were audible for the Israeli delegation and US Vice President JD Vance, according to Sky News. Outside the venue, approximately 10,000 people took to the streets to protest housing costs and the environmental impact of the Games. Italian police responded by firing tear gas and water cannons at protesters who threw firecrackers and other objects, as reported by Sky News.

Elsewhere, several regions faced severe weather. Storm Marta battered Portugal and Spain, leading to warnings of potential fresh floods. Hundreds of roads were blocked, trains were disrupted, and thousands were forced to evacuate, as reported by Euronews. In Japan, heavy snowfall since January 20 had resulted in at least 45 deaths and over 500 injuries nationwide, according to Euronews. The northwestern region of Niigata Prefecture recorded the highest number of deaths, with 17 fatalities and over 170 injuries.

Adding to the global challenges, the German army brigade in Lithuania was experiencing hybrid attacks, as reported by Euronews. Soldiers reported mysterious phone calls and the appearance of drones spying on maneuvers. One soldier recounted hearing his own voice in a phone call, a recording of a conversation from hours earlier. Russian forces were employing hybrid warfare tactics, including surveillance, airspace violations, and psychological operations, to exert pressure on EU and NATO territory, according to Euronews.