Italy summons Russian ambassador after TV host targets Meloni with stream of insults

© Tom Nicholson / POOL/AFP
by FRANCE 24
April 22, 2026
2 min read

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Italy summoned Russia's ambassador over a TV host's insults against Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.

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Italy summoned Russia's ambassador after a Russian TV presenter directed a series of harsh insults at Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani announced the diplomatic action, which follows widespread condemnation of the remarks across Italy's political spectrum. This incident further exacerbates the already strained relationship between Rome and Moscow. Relations have been tense due to ongoing disagreements, particularly concerning the conflict in Ukraine.

What's Being Done

Rome has called in Moscow's ambassador following the remarks.

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