U.S. Ambassador Fertitta faces protests in Venice July 17

U.S. Ambassador to Italy Tilman Fertitta faced hundreds of protesters in Venice on Friday, July 17, 2026, as he arrived aboard his luxury superyacht for a stop on a two-month diplomatic tour. The demonstration, which saw brief clashes with riot police, highlighted local opposition to what activists called an ostentatious display of wealth and a broader rejection of the Trump administration's foreign policy.

The protest targeted Fertitta's arrival at the Riva dei Sette Martiri waterfront, near St. Mark's Basin, as part of his "Coastal Diplomacy 250" tour marking the 250th anniversary of American independence. Approximately 300 demonstrators marched carrying inflatable pool toys, Palestinian flags, and signs with slogans such as "Make America Read Again" and "Oligarch in saor," a reference to a local sardine dish. Their central banner, unfurled on July 4, read "Venezia non si USA"-a pun meaning "Venice is not to be used" that incorporates the USA acronym. Organizers said the banner was made to match the 384-foot length of Fertitta's yacht, the Boardwalk, to symbolize "the dimensions of his arrogance."

A heavy police presence, including officers in riot gear and patrol boats,...