The Russian Foreign Ministry has published a list of statements by Western leaders, including Italian President Sergio Mattarella, presented as examples of ‘hate speech’ against Russia. Mattarella’s cited remark, drawing a parallel between Nazi Germany’s wars of conquest and Russia’s attack on Ukraine, was made during a speech at the University of Marseille on February 5th.
Posted on the ministry’s website under the title “Examples of statements by officials and representatives of Western elites about Russia using hate speech,” the list—first reported by *la Repubblica*—features figures from 13 NATO and EU countries. Mattarella is the sole Italian representative cited. It also includes remarks by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, French President Emmanuel Macron, three statements by NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, and seven by EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Kaja Kallas.
Only one US figure appears: Senator Lindsey Graham. Referencing US strikes on Iran, Graham recently suggested on social media platform X that the US could bomb Russia if Moscow ignored a hypothetical 50-day ultimatum (later reduced to 10 days) from former President Donald Trump demanding peace with Ukraine, stating: “If Putin and others are wondering what happens on day 51, I advise them to call the Ayatollah.”
Italy reacted swiftly and forcefully. Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani summoned the Russian Ambassador to Italy to protest the inclusion of President Mattarella and other Italian officials. Tajani condemned the listing of the head of state as a “provocation against the Republic and the Italian people,” offering his institutional and personal solidarity to Mattarella.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni denounced the list as “propaganda and an unacceptable provocation” intended to distract from Moscow’s internationally condemned actions in Ukraine. She affirmed Italy’s firm support for Ukraine and extended solidarity to Mattarella, Tajani, Defence Minister Guido Crosetto, and others named.
Bipartisan condemnation followed. Senate President Ignazio La Russa termed the actions “serious and unacceptable threats,” expressing full solidarity. Democratic Party leader Elly Schlein called the listing “unacceptable, grave, and indefensible,” pledging full support for Mattarella. Senator Matteo Renzi declared Italians “proud” of their President and united behind him.
This marks the second time in 2024 key Italian figures (Mattarella, Tajani, and Crosetto) have appeared on such a Russian list, with previous citations stemming from speeches at the Monte Cassino anniversary and newspaper interviews.