Protesters Clash with Police in Venice Over US Ambassador's Megayacht

Venice witnessed a brief confrontation between police and protesters Friday as demonstrators voiced their opposition to the arrival of a megayacht owned by the U.S. ambassador to Italy, businessman Tilman Fertitta. Hundreds of protesters chanted slogans critical of American policies in the Middle East and attempted to reach the 117-meter-long vessel, known as The Boardwalk.

“

arrogance of the ambassador

The yacht's entry into Venice was accompanied by Italian police speedboats and watercraft, underscoring the security measures in place. This visit was part of a tour along the Italian coast organized by the ambassador to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Declaration of Independence.

“

product of the policy trumpista

Opposition lawmakers have raised concerns about the financial implications of such tours, pointing out that each visit necessitates the deployment of naval units, coast guard vessels, and police forces. The protest organizers further denounced what they described as the "arrogance of the ambassador," attributing it to "Trumpist policy." They viewed the ambassador's visit, following a high-profile wedding in Venice the previous year, as another "slap in the face" to the city's residents.

“

slap in the face