Key facts
- U.S. Ambassador to Italy Tilman Fertitta arrived in Venice on his superyacht 'Boardwalk'.
- The visit is part of a 'Freedom 250 Coastal Diplomacy Tour' celebrating the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence.
- Protests were organized against Donald Trump's policies, including his stance on the conflict in Gaza and global economic instability.
- Security was heightened in Venice, coinciding with the city's Festa del Redentore festival.
- Activists criticized the ambassador's visit and the use of Venice for such events.
U.S. Ambassador to Italy Tilman Fertitta arrived in Venice aboard his superyacht 'Boardwalk' on Friday, a visit that has drawn protests against the policies of President Donald Trump and prompted heightened security measures. The ambassador's arrival coincides with preparations for the Festa del Redentore, one of Venice's most important festivals.
Fertitta, a billionaire businessman appointed by Trump, is undertaking a "Freedom 250 Coastal Diplomacy Tour" across Italy to commemorate the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence. The 117-meter yacht was escorted to its berth near St. Mark's Square.
Authorities have increased security due to planned demonstrations by activists, including the Morion social centre, which organized a march under the slogan "Venezia non si Usa" (Venice is not to be used). Protest organizers view Fertitta as a representative of Trump's policies, which they claim are contributing to global conflicts, supporting Israel's military actions in Gaza, and driving economic instability and price increases.
Italy's Green and Left Alliance also criticized the government for allegedly diverting police resources to act as bodyguards for Fertitta, urging supporters to protest U.S. policies. The visit occurs amidst reports of strained relations between Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, though Fertitta has downplayed any such rift.