Tensions between Italy and Russia are riding high. 

Italy has summoned the Russian ambassador in Rome after Vladimir Solovyov, a Russian television presenter, insulted Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on air. 

According to Italian media, Solovyov said Meloni was, among other things, “a disgrace to the human race” and a “certified idiot”. 

He went on to call her “fascist scum who betrayed her electors.” 

Italy Correspondent Jo McKenna told Mike Hosking it’s uncertain whether this was sparked by Meloni’s shaky relationship with US President Donald Trump, her support for Ukraine, or if it was personal for Solovyov, who apparently has a few luxury villas on Lake Como that are now subject to EU sanctions.   

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