Protesters greeted the American ambassador's luxury yacht in Venice on Friday with inflatable water toys, beach balls and a sign reading "Venezia non si USA," a play on words meaning “Venice is not to be used.”
Several hundred protesters marched against Tilman Fertitta’s arrival, briefly clashing with riot police as they neared the vessel.
Activists described his visit as an unwelcome display of American wealth and influence at a time when many Italians see the Trump administration as upending the post-World War II international order.
During the protest, people raised their hands to show they were peaceful as they approached a double line of riot police. Officers pushed them back with shields after demonstrators refused to stop, while inflatable toys were thrown through the air.
Following the brief clash, protesters shouted "Shame!" at the ambassador, the mayor and the police.
