In Venice, closed on the arrival of the American superyacht

In Venice, activists blocked access to an American luxury yacht after its arrival, protesting against what they described as an unwelcome display of U.S. wealth and influence during a time when many Italians believe President Donald Trump’s administration is undermining international order established after World War II. The incident occurred on Friday as part of a diplomatic tour organized by billionaire Tilman Fertitta, who arrived in Venice via helicopter on the deck of his 117-meter-long yacht, Boardwalk, which features two helicopters, two swimming pools, a fully equipped spa, and a gym. The protesters, carrying inflatable water toys and balls meant for the beach, marched through the streets with signs reading “Venezia non si USA,” a phrase meaning “Venice does not belong to the U.S.” The acronym for the United States was written in large letters, emphasizing their opposition to American cultural dominance. When the demonstrators reached a line of police officers clad in riot gear, they raised their hands in a gesture of peace. Despite this, the police pushed them back using shields, sending the inflatable toys flying into the air. The protesters shouted at the mayor, the ambassador, and the police, calling the situation “shameful.” Fertitta had arrived in Venice earlier that morning as part of his “Coastal Diplomacy 250” tour, commemorating the 250th anniversary of American independence. His luxury yacht, which overshadowed buildings along the lagoon’s shores, was surrounded by police boats. The tour, spanning 13 Italian coastal regions, aims to celebrate shared history, economic partnerships, and cultural ties between the U.S. and Italy, according to Fertitta’s social media statement. Despite being asked for an interview on the tour and the protests, Fertitta declined, issuing a brief statement supporting the right to peaceful protest. He emphasized that Americans respect freedom of speech and the right to protest, noting that the coastal diplomacy initiative honors the founding of the nation and fundamental rights. Stella Morion, an organizer of the protest, told AP News that it was arrogant to think one could act freely in a city increasingly dominated by a single tourism culture. She added that the protesters oppose Trump’s foreign policies, including attacks on Iran, which she claims have caused energy prices to rise sharply. “This is already countless blows to the face of the city and all its residents, who struggle to survive until the end of the month due to higher costs caused by Trump’s wars,” she said. The incident highlights growing tensions between American visitors and local communities in Venice, particularly as the city grapples with rising living costs and concerns over cultural erosion. Activists argue that the presence of wealthy foreigners, especially during politically charged times, exacerbates these issues. Meanwhile, Fertitta’s tour continues, with plans to visit other Italian coastal areas, further drawing attention to the complex relationship between tourism, politics, and public sentiment in Venice.