Italy Summons Russian Ambassador Over 'Russophobe' List Inclusion
Italy is protesting Russia's list labeling Italian President Sergio Mattarella as a 'Russophobe'. PM Giorgia Meloni criticized the list as propaganda. The Italian government's response highlights strained ties with Russia post-Ukraine invasion, although traditionally close. Other Western leaders including Germany's Merz and France's Macron are also listed.
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The Italian government has announced its decision to summon the Russian ambassador, challenging Moscow's latest move to label President Sergio Mattarella as a 'Russophobe'. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned the list as propaganda aimed at inciting anti-Western sentiment.
The list, published by Russia's Foreign Ministry, claims to catalogue hate speech against Russia by Western elites. Among those named are leaders from France and Germany. Mattarella's inclusion was based on a speech at Aix-Marseille University, where he compared Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine to Nazi Germany's expansionist wars.
Italy, traditionally a close ally of Russia, has seen relations sour since the Ukraine conflict. The move to summon the ambassador underscores Italy's support for Ukraine and a collective Western stance against Moscow's actions. Russian officials have yet to comment on the development.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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