Italy Responds to Russian Provocation: Ambassador Summoned After Russophobic Claims

On Wednesday, Italy called in the Russian ambassador after Russia placed Italian President Sergio Mattarella on a list of Western officials accused of employing «hateful» and «Russophobic» rhetoric.

The Italian Foreign Ministry condemned this action as «a provocation against the republic and the Italian populace,» amid escalating tensions between the two nations due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Previously, Russia’s Foreign Ministry released examples of what it referred to as «hate speech» directed at Russia, along with «Russophobic» remarks made by political leaders and public figures from various countries.

President Mattarella, who primarily serves in a ceremonial capacity, was reportedly included on the list for likening Russia’s invasion of Ukraine to Nazi Germany’s aggression during World War II.

Additionally, other European leaders, including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, were also mentioned in this list.

The relationship between Russia and Italy has further deteriorated recently after concert organizers near Naples canceled a performance by conductor Valery Gergiev due to his connections with the Kremlin.

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has openly supported Ukraine, and Italy hosted a significant recovery conference for the nation earlier this month.

Since the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, Italy has welcomed thousands of Ukrainian refugees.

Reporting contributed by AFP.