Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova has warned that President Sergio Mattarella’s recent comments in Marseille will not go “without consequences.”
Speaking on Russian state TV, Zakharova reacted to Mattarella’s comments at the University of Marseille, where she claimed he equated Russia with the Third Reich. “This cannot and will never be left without consequences,” she said, as reported by Ria Novosti.
Zakharova also referenced Italy’s role in World War II, saying: “This is being said by someone who cannot be unaware of how many Italian soldiers killed our grandfathers and great-grandfathers under Nazi banners and slogans.” She also questioned why such a comparison was being made “in the year of the 80th anniversary of our victory.” She added that Soviet citizens “not only liberated their homeland but also freed others from Nazism.”
Italian Lawmakers Show Support for Mattarella
In response to Zakharova’s comments, Italy’s Chamber of Deputies gave President Mattarella a prolonged standing ovation. The applause followed an expression of solidarity from Democratic Party leader Chiara Braga.
Meanwhile, the Quirinale declined to comment on Zakharova’s latest statements.
Former Prime Minister Paolo Gentiloni said a diplomatic response from Italy would be “more than appropriate.” He posted on X, “I don’t know what ‘consequences’ Zakharova is threatening, but I know an Italian diplomatic reaction is needed.”
Democratic Party Secretary Elly Schlein condemned the remarks from Moscow, calling them “unacceptable.” Speaking in L’Aquila, she described them as “attacks, provocations, and even threats,” reaffirming her party’s full support for Mattarella. “The entire country stands with him,” she said.
