There have been ugly scenes in Italy as demonstrators denouncing the planned expansion of a US military base clashed with riot police. Violence erupted as security forces moved to prevent protesters from crossing a bridge and getting nearer to the controversial site. Youths lit firecrackers and threw stones and bottles at police who replied with tear gas. The extension plan in the northeastern city of Vicenza has angered environmental campaigners, far left groups and some locals.
The disturbances come just days before Italy hosts the G8 summit.
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