VENICE, July 17 — Hundreds of people protested in Venice on Friday against U.S. Ambassador to Italy, Tilman Fertitta, as he arrived on his superyacht. The demonstration criticized the policies of former President Donald Trump.
Activists also voiced their concerns over increased security measures put in place by local authorities in anticipation of a major festival in Venice.
Fertitta, a billionaire businessman appointed by Trump, is traveling around Italy on his 117-meter (384-foot) yacht, Boardwalk. This trip is part of a "Freedom 250 Coastal Diplomacy Tour" celebrating the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence.
About 300 protesters marched through the city, holding signs with messages like “Fertitta must go,” “Make America go away,” “Venice must not be used,” and “No space for billionaires.” They approached the area of Riva dei Sette Martiri where the yacht was anchored but were stopped by police, leading to a few minor clashes.
The protesters also showed support for the Palestinian people in Gaza, accusing Israel of genocide.
The luxurious yacht, accompanied by a tugboat, slowly docked at Riva dei Sette Martiri, located about a kilometer (half a mile) from St. Mark’s Square.
Authorities have increased security due to concerns over planned protests that coincide with the Festa del Redentore.
This ancient festival marks the end of a plague epidemic and is expected to attract thousands of residents and tourists for fireworks and religious ceremonies starting Saturday.
The inhabitants of this delicate city have long expressed concerns about the negative effects of mass tourism and how Venice is increasingly used for high-profile events, including the wedding of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos in June 2025.
Protest organizers, including the Morion social center, view Fertitta as a symbol of Trump's policies, which they claim contribute to global conflicts, support Israel's military actions in Gaza, and increase economic instability and costs worldwide.
Italy’s Green and Left Alliance (AVS) accused the government of reallocating hundreds of police from their public safety roles to serve as “bodyguards” for Fertitta during his Italian tour. They also called for protests against U.S. policies.
Recent public disagreements between Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, especially after her denial of his claim that she “begged” for a photo together at the G7 summit, have strained their previously close relationship.
Fertitta has dismissed claims of a rift, asserting that Trump and Meloni maintain a strong personal connection.