The move is part of broader security measures aimed at preventing terrorism and smuggling, part of which 6500 troops have been deployed across the country. Another reason for their deployment is the Holy Year declared by Pope Francis.

Until June next year, groups of three soldiers and two police officers will conduct passport checks; especially passengers from non-Schengen countries will face enhanced checks before entering or leaving Italy. According to government commissioner Francesca Adelaide Garuffi, the troops are on public security duty, but they do not have the same authority as police officers. The mixed units will not be stationed at the border crossings but will move along the border.

Local residents had mixed reactions. Some have welcomed the measure and said that they feel safer now. Others are indifferent to it because they have not seen any soldiers yet. However, there were people who said that they oppose the measure because they still believe in Europe and its ability to guarantee security and peace.

The Italian army has also beefed up checks in the Port of Trieste, which sees around 25,000 trucks a month. Most of them come from Turkey. Special anti-terrorist police units were also placed there.

M. M. (TV Slovenia); translated by D. V.