Protesters Rally Against US Ambassador in Venice

About 300 people protested in Venice on Friday against US Ambassador to Italy Tilman Fertitta, who arrived in the city aboard his superyacht, Boardwalk. Demonstrators criticized both the ambassador and the policies of President Donald Trump, whom he represents.

The protesters carried banners denouncing billionaires and the use of Venice as a venue for high-profile events, while also expressing support for Palestinians in the occupied territories and accusing Israel of committing genocide in Gaza.

They also criticized the heightened security measures introduced by Italian authorities ahead of the weekend's Festa del Redentore celebrations. Police prevented demonstrators from approaching the yacht's mooring site, and minor scuffles broke out.

Organizers said Fertitta had become a symbol of Trump's foreign policy, which they said were fueling conflicts, supporting Israel's military campaign in Gaza and increasing global economic instability and prices.

Venice has long faced criticism over mass tourism and its role as a venue for lavish events attended by the global elite.

(Reuters, mja)