Venice Protesters Confront US Ambassador Over Diplomatic Tour Amid Economic Concerns

Protesters gathered in Venice on Friday to criticize the arrival of U.S. Ambassador Tilman Fertitta, demonstrating against his luxury yacht visit with inflatable water toys, beach balls, and signs reading “Venezia non si USA” (“Venice is not to be used”) and “Make America Read Again.” Activists condemned the event as a symbol of excessive American wealth and influence, particularly in light of concerns over President Donald Trump’s policies affecting Italy’s economy and global standing.

Several hundred demonstrators clashed briefly with riot police near St. Mark’s Basin, where Fertitta moored as part of a “Coastal Diplomacy 250” tour celebrating the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence. Protesters raised their hands to signal peaceful intent, while tensions escalated as officers used shields to disperse crowds refusing to retreat. Demonstrators later chanted “Shame!” directed at the ambassador, local officials, and law enforcement.

Fertitta’s tour spans 13 Italian coastal regions, emphasizing “shared history, economic partnership, and cultural bonds.” In a social media statement, he acknowledged the right to protest, stating, “I like Italians, we Americans respect freedom of speech and the right to peaceful protest.”

Organizer Stella Morion criticized the ambassador’s presence, calling it “arrogant to think he can do what he wants in a city increasingly dominated by tourism.” She linked the protest to opposition against Trump’s foreign policies, including military actions in Iran, which she argued have driven up energy costs and financial strain for locals. Details of Fertitta’s meetings in Venice remain undisclosed, though he is expected to attend the Redentore festival on Saturday, a historic celebration featuring fireworks over St. Mark’s Basin.

Source link