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A teacher who avoided going to work for over 20 years using sick leaves, holidays and permits to attend other businesses has finally been sacked by her employers. Described as Italy's worst-ever employee, Cinzia Paolina De Lio managed to collect pay cheques for the better part of the last two decades while remaining absent at work.&nbsp;

56-year-old Cinzia was employed at a secondary school near Venice to teach literature and philosophy. However, she only showed up for four out of the 24 years she worked there to teach the students.

The disgraced teacher was finally sacked on June 22, according to Daily Mail. Italy's highest&nbsp;court confirmed her ouster by stating her absences showed a "permanent and absolute ineptitude".

On the rare occasion that Cinzia did turn up to work, she ignored the students, made up lessons on the spot and borrowed textbooks as she couldn't be bothered to bring them. Reportedly, students went on strike one time after&nbsp;Cinzia handed out marks that had no connection to the work handed in. She remained distracted while conducting oral exams and sent text messages instead.&nbsp;

After being sacked by the school,&nbsp;Cinzia said she will tell her side of the story. However, in what can be only called an irony, she refused to entertain the&nbsp;journalists asking questions, saying she was at the 'beach'.&nbsp;

"Sorry, but right now I'm at the beach," she told&nbsp;Repubblica newspaper, adding that she had documents to prove her side of the story.&nbsp;

"I will reconstruct the truth of the facts of this absolutely unique and surreal story. I don't answer questions from journalists thrown around that wouldn't do justice to the truth of my story."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/elon-musk-takes-ketamine-for-depression-and-parties-this-report-makes-a-shocking-claim-609669">Also read |&nbsp;Elon Musk takes ketamine for depression and parties? This report makes a shocking claim</a>

<h2>Other instances of prolonged absenteeism&nbsp;</h2>

Notably, Cinzia is not the first such&nbsp;employee to have emerged from the European nation. In 2021, an individual named&nbsp;Salvatore Scumace, a hospital worker was accused of taking home more than $648,000 in pay, despite having never turned up for work in 15 years.&nbsp;

66-year-old&nbsp;Scumace was assigned to work in the fire emergency operations of the Pugliese Ciaccio hospital, in the city of Catanzaro, Calabria. However, apart from turning up on the first day to sign the documents of his employment, he never showed up and quietly cashed in the cheques.&nbsp;

When a manager caught a whiff of Scumace's elaborate scam, he resorted to threatening them and their family.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/swedish-courts-overturn-ban-to-burn-holy-book-of-quran-609747">WATCH |&nbsp;Swedish courts overturn ban to burn Holy Book of Quran</a>

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In 2016, the Italian government, taking view of the increased frequency of such cases, tightened the&nbsp;laws against the 'workshy'. According to a report in The Guardian, in one of the cases, the Italian police&nbsp;used secret surveillance cameras to ensnare 35 workers at Sanremo’s town hall who had been cheating the time management system for at least two years.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
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A teacher who avoided going to work for over 20 years using sick leaves, holidays and permits to attend other businesses has finally been sacked by her employers.

A teacher who avoided going to work for over 20 years using sick leaves, holidays and permits to attend other businesses has finally been sacked by her employers. Described as Italy's worst-ever employee, Cinzia Paolina De Lio managed to collect pay cheques for the better part of the last two decades while remaining absent at work. 56-year-old Cinzia was employed at a secondary school near Venice to teach literature and philosophy. However, she only showed up for four out of the 24 years she worked there to teach the students. The disgraced teacher was finally sacked on June 22, according to Daily Mail. Italy's highest court confirmed her ouster by stating her absences showed a "permanent and absolute ineptitude". On the rare occasion that Cinzia did turn up to work, she ignored the students, made up lessons on the spot and borrowed textbooks as she couldn't be bothered to bring them. Reportedly, students went on strike one time after Cinzia handed out marks that had no connection to the work handed in. She remained distracted while conducting oral exams and sent text messages instead. After being sacked by the school, Cinzia said she will tell her side of the story. However, in what can be only called an irony, she refused to entertain the journalists asking questions, saying she was at the 'beach'. "Sorry, but right now I'm at the beach," she told Repubblica newspaper, adding that she had documents to prove her side of the story. "I will reconstruct the truth of the facts of this absolutely unique and surreal story. I don't answer questions from journalists thrown around that wouldn't do justice to the truth of my story." Also read | Elon Musk takes ketamine for depression and parties? This report makes a shocking claim Other instances of prolonged absenteeism Notably, Cinzia is not the first such employee to have emerged from the European nation. In 2021, an individual named Salvatore Scumace, a hospital worker was accused of taking home more than $648,000 in pay, despite having never turned up for work in 15 years. 66-year-old Scumace was assigned to work in the fire emergency operations of the Pugliese Ciaccio hospital, in the city of Catanzaro, Calabria. However, apart from turning up on the first day to sign the documents of his employment, he never showed up and quietly cashed in the cheques. When a manager caught a whiff of Scumace's elaborate scam, he resorted to threatening them and their family. WATCH | Swedish courts overturn ban to burn Holy Book of Quran × In 2016, the Italian government, taking view of the increased frequency of such cases, tightened the laws against the 'workshy'. According to a report in The Guardian, in one of the cases, the Italian police used secret surveillance cameras to ensnare 35 workers at Sanremo’s town hall who had been cheating the time management system for at least two years. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Italy's worst employee': Teacher fired finally for skipping work for 20 years

Pope Francis, on Sunday (June 25), offered a prayer and solidarity for the family of a teenager who went missing 40 years ago this week, in one of Italy’s most mysterious cases. The brother of the missing teen hailed the move and said it was a sign that the Vatican is finally engaging seriously with the cold case.&nbsp;

<h2>What did the Pope say?</h2>

During his weekly prayer, while delivering the Angelus message, on Sunday, at the Vatican, Pope Francis said he wanted to use the 40th anniversary of the disappearance “to once again express my closeness to the family, above all her mother, and assure them of my prayers”.&nbsp;

Furthermore, also he addressed, the missing 15-year-old daughter of a Vatican usher, Emanuela Orlandi’s brother Pietro, and the crowd in St Peter’s Square and said, “I extend my remembrance to all the families who bear the pain of a loved one who has disappeared.”

<h2>What do we know about the four-decade-old case?</h2>

In 1983, Emanuela, who was 15 years old, at the time, did not return home on June 22 after a music lesson in Rome. She lived with her parents in a Vatican City apartment.&nbsp;

ALSO READ&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-condemned-offensive-and-baseless-insinuations-about-st-john-paul-ii-583115">Pope Francis condemns ‘offensive and baseless’ insinuations about St John Paul II</a>

After years of investigating her disappearance, it continues to remain one of Italy’s most enduring mysteries and has given rise to several theories over the years. Late last year, Netflix released a series called “Vatican Girl” which renewed worldwide attention on the cold case.&nbsp;

The series showed a friend who said that Emanuela had told her a week before her disappearance that a high-ranking Vatican cleric had made sexual advances toward her. Additionally, earlier this year, a purported Roman mobster in an audiotape insinuated that John Paul would go out looking for underage girls to molest.&nbsp;

The audio clip in question was played on an Italian TV program by Pietro Orlandi where the alleged mobster said that more than 40 years ago, girls were brought into the Vatican to be molested and that Pope John Paul knew about it. This prompted Pope Francis to publicly defend the late pontiff and called the insinuations “offensive and baseless”.&nbsp;

<h2>Pietro Orlandi about Pope’s prayer</h2>

Notably, Pietro was present with a group of supporters holding up signs and banners calling for “justice” and “truth,” as per Reuters. Speaking to the Italian news agency ANSA, Peitro welcomed the Pope’s remarks and called them “a positive signal” and “a good step forward”.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-permits-women-to-vote-at-meeting-of-bishops-for-first-time-586509">Pope Francis permits women to vote at meeting of bishops for first time</a>

Pietro and his family have long called on the Vatican to shed light on the mystery and have been campaigning for the truth for decades now. “The Emanuela Orlandi taboo has finally been broken,” said Pietro while leading the sit-in near the Vatican. He added, “The fact of praying is a sign of hope of reaching the truth.” Notably, the Vatican has been previously accused of obstructing investigation efforts.&nbsp; 
 
The ongoing investigation

In January the Vatican’s chief prosecutor opened a file into the case. Additionally, on Thursday (the actual anniversary of Emanuela’s disappearance) the Vatican said that the findings had been forwarded to the Rome prosecutor’s office which is conducting its own probe for the case.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vatican-reopens-probe-into-teenager-who-went-missing-in-1983-after-netflix-documentary-draws-attention-550912">Vatican reopens probe into teenager who went missing in 1983 following Netflix documentary</a>

The Vatican, last week also released a statement which said “some lines of inquiry worthy of further investigation,” without any other details.&nbsp;

Pietro Orlandi told AFP “these words are already a big step that we had been asking for for years and years and it had never happened,” speaking about the pope’s prayers. He added, “We expect acts after these words.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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Pope Francis, on Sunday (June 25), offered a prayer and solidarity for the family of a teenager who went missing 40 years ago this week, in one of Italy’s most mysterious cases.

Pope Francis, on Sunday (June 25), offered a prayer and solidarity for the family of a teenager who went missing 40 years ago this week, in one of Italy’s most mysterious cases. The brother of the missing teen hailed the move and said it was a sign that the Vatican is finally engaging seriously with the cold case. What did the Pope say? During his weekly prayer, while delivering the Angelus message, on Sunday, at the Vatican, Pope Francis said he wanted to use the 40th anniversary of the disappearance “to once again express my closeness to the family, above all her mother, and assure them of my prayers”. Furthermore, also he addressed, the missing 15-year-old daughter of a Vatican usher, Emanuela Orlandi’s brother Pietro, and the crowd in St Peter’s Square and said, “I extend my remembrance to all the families who bear the pain of a loved one who has disappeared.” What do we know about the four-decade-old case? In 1983, Emanuela, who was 15 years old, at the time, did not return home on June 22 after a music lesson in Rome. She lived with her parents in a Vatican City apartment. ALSO READ | Pope Francis condemns ‘offensive and baseless’ insinuations about St John Paul II After years of investigating her disappearance, it continues to remain one of Italy’s most enduring mysteries and has given rise to several theories over the years. Late last year, Netflix released a series called “Vatican Girl” which renewed worldwide attention on the cold case. The series showed a friend who said that Emanuela had told her a week before her disappearance that a high-ranking Vatican cleric had made sexual advances toward her. Additionally, earlier this year, a purported Roman mobster in an audiotape insinuated that John Paul would go out looking for underage girls to molest. The audio clip in question was played on an Italian TV program by Pietro Orlandi where the alleged mobster said that more than 40 years ago, girls were brought into the Vatican to be molested and that Pope John Paul knew about it. This prompted Pope Francis to publicly defend the late pontiff and called the insinuations “offensive and baseless”. Pietro Orlandi about Pope’s prayer Notably, Pietro was present with a group of supporters holding up signs and banners calling for “justice” and “truth,” as per Reuters. Speaking to the Italian news agency ANSA, Peitro welcomed the Pope’s remarks and called them “a positive signal” and “a good step forward”. ALSO READ | Pope Francis permits women to vote at meeting of bishops for first time Pietro and his family have long called on the Vatican to shed light on the mystery and have been campaigning for the truth for decades now. “The Emanuela Orlandi taboo has finally been broken,” said Pietro while leading the sit-in near the Vatican. He added, “The fact of praying is a sign of hope of reaching the truth.” Notably, the Vatican has been previously accused of obstructing investigation efforts. The ongoing investigation In January the Vatican’s chief prosecutor opened a file into the case. Additionally, on Thursday (the actual anniversary of Emanuela’s disappearance) the Vatican said that the findings had been forwarded to the Rome prosecutor’s office which is conducting its own probe for the case. ALSO READ | Vatican reopens probe into teenager who went missing in 1983 following Netflix documentary The Vatican, last week also released a statement which said “some lines of inquiry worthy of further investigation,” without any other details. Pietro Orlandi told AFP “these words are already a big step that we had been asking for for years and years and it had never happened,” speaking about the pope’s prayers. He added, “We expect acts after these words.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pope Francis offers prayers for 'Vatican girl' who went missing 40 years ago, 'breaks taboo'

In another migrant shipwreck incident, around 40 people are missing after their boat capsized off the Italian island of Lampedusa, the UN said on Friday.

The United Nations agency released a statement saying that the survivors, who were from sub-Saharan Africa, arrived in Lampedusa on Thursday after they were rescued from the shipwreck by another vessel.

As per the news agency AFP, UNHCR representative to Italy, Chiara Cardoletti, said that at least one newborn baby was among those missing in the incident.

The vessel, which departed from Sfax in Tunisia for Italy, had 46 migrants on board, said Flavio Di Giacomo, a spokesman for the UN migration agency IOM.

He said that the boat capsized due to high waves and strong winds.

"Some survivors were taken to Lampedusa and others were brought back to Tunisia," he said.

"Among those missing were seven women and a minor. The survivors are all adult men,"&nbsp;he added.&nbsp;

"We have noticed more arrivals of migrants from sub-Saharan Africa than Tunisians&nbsp;via the Tunisian route since November," he said.

He explained this was due to people from sub-Saharan Africa fleeing discrimination in Tunisia.

"It is unacceptable to continue counting the dead at the gates of Europe,"&nbsp;Cardoletti said.

<h2>Tunisia boat tragedy: 14 people from sub-Saharan African nations drown</h2>

Earlier, at least 14 migrants from sub-Saharan Africa drowned off the coast of Tunisia in the month of March.

The Tunisian authorities said that they discovered a sunken boat from which they rescued 54 people of various sub-Saharan African nationalities. The authorities had recovered 14 dead bodies from the spot.&nbsp;

"Coast guard patrols last night intercepted a group whose boat had sunk, rescuing 54 people of various sub-Saharan African nationalities, and recovering 14 bodies," the authority said in a statement.

Earlier this year, Tunisia President Kais Saied ordered officials to take "urgent measures" to tackle irregular migration, claiming that "a criminal plot" was underway to change Tunisia's demography. He claimed that migrants were behind most crime in the North African country.

Tunisia, whose coast lies just 150 kilometres (90 miles) from the Italian island of Lampedusa, has long been a transit for people fleeing war and poverty elsewhere in Africa, often on boats.

Tunisia reportedly hosts around 21,000 undocumented migrants from other parts of Africa, less than 0.2 per cent of the population.

Rome said in February that more than 32,000 migrants, including 18,000 Tunisians, reached Italy from Tunisia last year, while thousands more have departed from neighbouring Libya.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In another migrant shipwreck incident, around 40 people are missing after their boat capsized off the Italian island of Lampedusa, the UN said on Friday. The United Nations agency released a statement saying that the survivors, who were from sub-Saharan Africa, arrived in Lampedusa on Thursday after they were rescued from the shipwreck by another vessel.

In another migrant shipwreck incident, around 40 people are missing after their boat capsized off the Italian island of Lampedusa, the UN said on Friday. The United Nations agency released a statement saying that the survivors, who were from sub-Saharan Africa, arrived in Lampedusa on Thursday after they were rescued from the shipwreck by another vessel. As per the news agency AFP, UNHCR representative to Italy, Chiara Cardoletti, said that at least one newborn baby was among those missing in the incident. The vessel, which departed from Sfax in Tunisia for Italy, had 46 migrants on board, said Flavio Di Giacomo, a spokesman for the UN migration agency IOM. He said that the boat capsized due to high waves and strong winds. "Some survivors were taken to Lampedusa and others were brought back to Tunisia," he said. "Among those missing were seven women and a minor. The survivors are all adult men," he added. "We have noticed more arrivals of migrants from sub-Saharan Africa than Tunisians via the Tunisian route since November," he said. He explained this was due to people from sub-Saharan Africa fleeing discrimination in Tunisia. "It is unacceptable to continue counting the dead at the gates of Europe," Cardoletti said. Tunisia boat tragedy: 14 people from sub-Saharan African nations drown Earlier, at least 14 migrants from sub-Saharan Africa drowned off the coast of Tunisia in the month of March. The Tunisian authorities said that they discovered a sunken boat from which they rescued 54 people of various sub-Saharan African nationalities. The authorities had recovered 14 dead bodies from the spot. "Coast guard patrols last night intercepted a group whose boat had sunk, rescuing 54 people of various sub-Saharan African nationalities, and recovering 14 bodies," the authority said in a statement. Earlier this year, Tunisia President Kais Saied ordered officials to take "urgent measures" to tackle irregular migration, claiming that "a criminal plot" was underway to change Tunisia's demography. He claimed that migrants were behind most crime in the North African country. Tunisia, whose coast lies just 150 kilometres (90 miles) from the Italian island of Lampedusa, has long been a transit for people fleeing war and poverty elsewhere in Africa, often on boats. Tunisia reportedly hosts around 21,000 undocumented migrants from other parts of Africa, less than 0.2 per cent of the population. Rome said in February that more than 32,000 migrants, including 18,000 Tunisians, reached Italy from Tunisia last year, while thousands more have departed from neighbouring Libya. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Around 40 migrants missing after boat capsizes between Italy and Tunisia

A teacher at a Catholic summer camp in Cesena, Italy, has been barred from working with children after the parish priest discovered his homosexuality on social media, according to local reports.

The teacher, who was set to run the camp, was informed of his removal when a photograph of him kissing another man was shown to the priest, reported AFP.&nbsp;Although he was offered a supervisory role, he declined, resulting in the camp's closure for the summer due to the inability to find a replacement on short notice.

<h2>Mayor and LGBTQ rights group condemn discrimination</h2>

The decision by the priest's staff to remove the teacher was met with strong criticism from the mayor of Cesena, Enzo Lattuca, who expressed his disappointment on Facebook, stating that such acts of discrimination should have no place in the modern era.

The incident also drew condemnation from the LGBTQ rights group Arcigay, which denounced it as an act of hate and violence. Gabriele Piazzoni, the secretary general of Arcigay, emphasised that the teacher had been publicly outed and punished for his sexual orientation.

Responding to the controversy, the diocese of Cesena-Sarsina issued a statement asserting that it is an inclusive and welcoming institution.

The diocese acknowledged the sensitivity of the matter and emphasised that the incident should not be about judging individuals or discriminating against their rights. The Catholic Church, including the Church of Cesena-Sarsina, is now actively exploring ways to better reach out to individuals who feel marginalised due to their&nbsp;sexuality.

Also watch |&nbsp;Italy approves bill criminalising surrogacy

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While the Catholic Church considers homosexual acts to be contrary to natural law and sin, it also calls for respect, compassion, and sensitivity towards individuals with same-sex attraction.

Pope Francis, since his election in 2013, has displayed a more accepting attitude towards LGBTQ communities. In a recent documentary, he emphasised that every person is a child of God and stated that the Church cannot close its doors to anyone.

However, he maintains the traditional Catholic teaching on marriage, defining it as the union between a man and a woman for procreation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-updates-uganda-travel-warning-over-anti-gay-law-603987">US updates Uganda travel warning over anti-gay law</a>

The incident at the Catholic summer camp highlights the ongoing discussions within the Church regarding LGBTQ inclusion and the challenges it faces in reconciling the doctrine with evolving societal attitudes.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A teacher at a Catholic summer camp in Cesena, Italy, has been barred from working with children after the parish priest discovered his homosexuality on social media, according to local reports.

A teacher at a Catholic summer camp in Cesena, Italy, has been barred from working with children after the parish priest discovered his homosexuality on social media, according to local reports. The teacher, who was set to run the camp, was informed of his removal when a photograph of him kissing another man was shown to the priest, reported AFP. Although he was offered a supervisory role, he declined, resulting in the camp's closure for the summer due to the inability to find a replacement on short notice. Mayor and LGBTQ rights group condemn discrimination The decision by the priest's staff to remove the teacher was met with strong criticism from the mayor of Cesena, Enzo Lattuca, who expressed his disappointment on Facebook, stating that such acts of discrimination should have no place in the modern era. The incident also drew condemnation from the LGBTQ rights group Arcigay, which denounced it as an act of hate and violence. Gabriele Piazzoni, the secretary general of Arcigay, emphasised that the teacher had been publicly outed and punished for his sexual orientation. Responding to the controversy, the diocese of Cesena-Sarsina issued a statement asserting that it is an inclusive and welcoming institution. The diocese acknowledged the sensitivity of the matter and emphasised that the incident should not be about judging individuals or discriminating against their rights. The Catholic Church, including the Church of Cesena-Sarsina, is now actively exploring ways to better reach out to individuals who feel marginalised due to their sexuality. Also watch | Italy approves bill criminalising surrogacy While the Catholic Church considers homosexual acts to be contrary to natural law and sin, it also calls for respect, compassion, and sensitivity towards individuals with same-sex attraction. Pope Francis, since his election in 2013, has displayed a more accepting attitude towards LGBTQ communities. In a recent documentary, he emphasised that every person is a child of God and stated that the Church cannot close its doors to anyone. However, he maintains the traditional Catholic teaching on marriage, defining it as the union between a man and a woman for procreation. Also read | US updates Uganda travel warning over anti-gay law The incident at the Catholic summer camp highlights the ongoing discussions within the Church regarding LGBTQ inclusion and the challenges it faces in reconciling the doctrine with evolving societal attitudes. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Catholic summer camp bans gay teacher, sparks uproar in Italy

Italy approves bill criminalising surrogacy. According to the bill that has garnered criticism from opponents who believe it primarily targets gay couples, Italy's ruling conservative majority wants to prosecute couples who travel overseas to have a kid through surrogacy. In Italy, using a surrogate to parent a child is already against the law and is subject to penalties of up to $1.08 million and prison sentences of three months to two years.

Italy approves bill criminalising surrogacy

The nationalist Giorgia Meloni government in Italy is mulling a new law that would effectively jail people, convicted of "glorifying illegal activity” online for up to five years.

The nationalist Giorgia Meloni government in Italy is mulling a new law that would effectively jail people, convicted of "glorifying illegal activity” online for up to five years. The move comes after an Italian YouTuber named Matteo Di Pietro, driving a rented Lamborghini SUV, as part of a social media stunt, crashed into a Smart car in Rome. In the accident, a five-year-old boy [Manuel Proietti] was killed while his mother and four-year-old sister suffered serious injuries. Five of those inside the supercar belonged to a group called 'The Borderline'. They had been partaking in a social media challenge that sees influencers competing in stunts to win prizes. They had been attempting to spend 50 hours straight in the luxury vehicle. The YouTube group quits After the incident, The Borderline, which has over 600,000 subscribers said it was cancelling its YouTube channel as it was "morally impossible" to continue. “The Borderline expresses sincere sympathy to the family [of Manuel]. What happened has left us all with a deep wound, nothing will ever be the same again...our thoughts are only with Manuel," the group said. Also read | Italian government's intervention blocks Chinese control of tyre giant Pirelli To avoid a repeat of the tragedy, the coalition government is extending a current law that targets youth gang crime, drafted by Matteo Salvini’s League party. Chasing views might end up in jail sentence Under the new law, those who “glorify illegal activity” or “instigate violence” by posting videos online to generate an income would be charged. Social media platforms have been rife with so-called 'content creators' using unconventional and unethical means to gain clicks and views. "The contrast to the production and dissemination of videos that glorify illegal conduct is one of its qualifying points," said Andrea Ostellari, an undersecretary at the justice ministry about the proposed law. Ostellari added the law was aimed a fighting “an emerging phenomenon” regarding young people who “instigate violence” or who “commit crimes via digital channels” in order “to obtain a few ‘likes’ without taking the risks into account”. Watch | Gravitas: Italy exposes China's underground banking network × Italy's deputy prime minister and transport minister, Salvini has already promised to toughen the rules of the highway code due to the increasing trend of accidents. One of the proposals bats for delaying the issuance of a diving license, allowable from the age of 18. to young people who have been involved in episodes of violence. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Italy's Meloni government considering law against 'glorifying' crimes online after YouTubers kill a kid

Ukraine cannot account for the hundreds of millions of dollars it has paid for the weapons in its ongoing war with Russia. And despite big announcements from the Western world regarding arms and ammunition, Kyiv remains hard-pressed for weapons.&nbsp;

A recent report by New York Times states&nbsp;that Kyiv has not received weapons for which it has already paid money to contractors. Meanwhile, the arms donated by the allies are in such shabby condition that they are only fit enough to be 'cannibalised' for spare parts.&nbsp;

"Ukrainian government documents show that as of the end of last year, Kyiv had paid arms suppliers more than $800 million since the Russian invasion in February 2022 for contracts that went completely or partly unfulfilled," the publication noted.&nbsp;

Money paid to state-owned companies never materialised in the delivery of arms, one of the people involved in Ukraine's arms purchasing was quoted as saying.&nbsp;

The recent delivery of&nbsp;33 self-propelled howitzers by Italy shows the true extent of the problem&nbsp;the Ukrainian administration is facing. A video showed smoke coming out of the engine of one vehicle, while another had engine coolant leaking from it.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-counteroffensive-leads-to-advancements-in-southern-region-russia-ukraine-war-605765">WATCH |&nbsp;Ukraine: Counteroffensive leads to advancements in Southern region | Russia-Ukraine War</a>

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When quizzed about the decrepit condition of the howitzers, the Italian defence ministry in a statement said the vehicles had been decommissioned long ago. However, Ukraine had&nbsp;asked for them anyway&nbsp;“to be overhauled and put into operation, given the urgent need for means to face the Russian aggression".

To arrest the slide, Kyiv sent those howitzers to&nbsp;Tampa-based Ultra Defense Corporation for repairs to the tune of $19.8 million. However, after being shipped back to Ukraine, 13 of them were deemed "not suitable for combat missions".&nbsp;

A miffed Kyiv shot down a letter to Pentagon and let Washington know about its frustrations.&nbsp;

“The American company, offering its services, had no prior intention to fulfil its obligations,” wrote&nbsp;Volodymyr Pikuzo,&nbsp;Ukraine's defence procurement director in the letter.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kremlin-critic-alexei-navalny-faces-decades-in-prison-for-rehabilitating-nazi-ideology-and-other-crimes-605858">Also read |&nbsp;Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny faces decades in prison for 'rehabilitating Nazi ideology' and other crimes</a>

The report claims that it is only this&nbsp;year that the Volodomyr Zelensky government has smelled the coffee and started analysing its past purchases to understand where the money is being spent and omit problematic contractors.&nbsp;

Notably, at any instance, over 30 per cent of Kyiv's arsenal is under repair. In its battle with Russia, such a high rate of weapon failure is non-negotiable and can potentially be the difference in eventual win or defeat.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2>Ukraine reliant on the West for keeping up in the war</h2>

The US has been one of the biggest donors for Ukraine in the ongoing war. It has committed almost $40 billion in military aid and more in financial and humanitarian aid. Meanwhile, the European allies have also pooled resources and donated tens of billions of dollars.&nbsp;

It is due to the money committed already that Ukrainian officials have mostly refrained from complaining about the broken equipment, However, as the war drags on and soldiers grow weary in the absence of proper weapons, the frustration is bound to grow.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukraine cannot account for the hundreds of millions of dollars it has paid for the weapons in its ongoing war with Russia. And despite big announcements from the Western world regarding arms and ammunition, Kyiv remains hard-pressed for weapons.

Ukraine cannot account for the hundreds of millions of dollars it has paid for the weapons in its ongoing war with Russia. And despite big announcements from the Western world regarding arms and ammunition, Kyiv remains hard-pressed for weapons. A recent report by New York Times states that Kyiv has not received weapons for which it has already paid money to contractors. Meanwhile, the arms donated by the allies are in such shabby condition that they are only fit enough to be 'cannibalised' for spare parts. "Ukrainian government documents show that as of the end of last year, Kyiv had paid arms suppliers more than $800 million since the Russian invasion in February 2022 for contracts that went completely or partly unfulfilled," the publication noted. Money paid to state-owned companies never materialised in the delivery of arms, one of the people involved in Ukraine's arms purchasing was quoted as saying. The recent delivery of 33 self-propelled howitzers by Italy shows the true extent of the problem the Ukrainian administration is facing. A video showed smoke coming out of the engine of one vehicle, while another had engine coolant leaking from it. WATCH | Ukraine: Counteroffensive leads to advancements in Southern region | Russia-Ukraine War × When quizzed about the decrepit condition of the howitzers, the Italian defence ministry in a statement said the vehicles had been decommissioned long ago. However, Ukraine had asked for them anyway “to be overhauled and put into operation, given the urgent need for means to face the Russian aggression". To arrest the slide, Kyiv sent those howitzers to Tampa-based Ultra Defense Corporation for repairs to the tune of $19.8 million. However, after being shipped back to Ukraine, 13 of them were deemed "not suitable for combat missions". A miffed Kyiv shot down a letter to Pentagon and let Washington know about its frustrations. “The American company, offering its services, had no prior intention to fulfil its obligations,” wrote Volodymyr Pikuzo, Ukraine's defence procurement director in the letter. Also read | Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny faces decades in prison for 'rehabilitating Nazi ideology' and other crimes The report claims that it is only this year that the Volodomyr Zelensky government has smelled the coffee and started analysing its past purchases to understand where the money is being spent and omit problematic contractors. Notably, at any instance, over 30 per cent of Kyiv's arsenal is under repair. In its battle with Russia, such a high rate of weapon failure is non-negotiable and can potentially be the difference in eventual win or defeat. Ukraine reliant on the West for keeping up in the war The US has been one of the biggest donors for Ukraine in the ongoing war. It has committed almost $40 billion in military aid and more in financial and humanitarian aid. Meanwhile, the European allies have also pooled resources and donated tens of billions of dollars. It is due to the money committed already that Ukrainian officials have mostly refrained from complaining about the broken equipment, However, as the war drags on and soldiers grow weary in the absence of proper weapons, the frustration is bound to grow. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Zelensky administration cannot account for 'hundreds of millions of dollars' spent on weapons: Report

In pics | Italy opens ancient Roman square, ruins of building where Julius Caesar was killed

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms - Iraq unveils 2,800-YO ancient stone tablet returned by Italy, China social media influencer dies trying to lose more than 100 kgs weight, Mysteries of universe to be revealed by Euclid Telescope: Scientists, Woman who knocked her coffin and 'came back to life' dies after a week.

Iraq unveils 2,800-YO ancient stone tablet | China social media influencer dies | Trending on WION

Italian tyremaker giant Pirelli has moved to block a Chinese state-owned company from taking control of the legacy brand. On Sunday, Pirelli issued a statement to its investors wherein it said the Italian government had ruled that only Camfin - a company controlled by Pirelli boss Marco Tronchetti Provera - could nominate candidates to be its chief executive.

Chinese&nbsp;chemical giant Sinochem has been the largest investor in Pirelli since 2015. It owns a 37 per cent stake in the 151-year-old Milan-based company, following a 2017 listing.&nbsp;

In 2015, Pirelli was sold for $7.8 billion to a group of investors including ChemChina and Camfin. However, six years later, ChemChina was merged with the state-owned Sinochem. Apart from Sinochem, the Chinese government has an additional 9 per cent stake in Pirelli through its Silk Road investment fund.&nbsp;

The developments come in the light of Sinochem, earlier this year, informing the Italian government that it planned to renew and update an existing shareholder pact.&nbsp;

Afterwards, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, taking evasive measures, examined the agreement under the &nbsp;"Golden Power Procedure" rules - aimed at protecting businesses that are strategically important to the country.&nbsp;

In a statement, Meloni's office said the latest measures were&nbsp;“aimed at creating a network of measures to safeguard Pirelli’s independence and its management”.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-italy-exposes-chinas-underground-banking-network-570737">Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Italy exposes China's underground banking network</a>

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<h2>Italy working to slither out of BRI</h2>

Notably, Italy in 2019 became the only G7 country to join China's highly controversial and ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Since then, critics have argued that Rome may have served itself up on a platter to Beijing which could gain access to sensitive technologies and vital infrastructure for its own gains.

Meloni, however, has hinted that Italy&nbsp;intends to exit BRI. Her government intervening to limit the influence of a Chinese company in a legacy Italian brand was a test of resolve, experts argue, one that she may have passed.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-china-attempts-image-building-italians-demand-payment-of-damages-289546">Also read | As China attempts image-building, Italians demand payment of damages</a>

China's relationship with the West has been on a downward slope in recent times. Akin to most European nations, Italy understands that it cannot sever trade and business ties with China altogether as it would be economically unsustainable. However, it is seeking avenues to limit the influence of the Asian country on strategic assets.&nbsp;

Founded in 1872, Pirelli is one of Italy's most storied companies. It specialises in high-end tyres for premium carmakers like Ferrari, Porsche and BMW and is the sole supplier of Formula One cars.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Italian tyremaker giant Pirelli has moved to block a Chinese state-owned company from taking control of the legacy brand. On Sunday, Pirelli issued a statement to its investors wherein it said the Italian government had ruled that only Camfin - a company controlled by Pirelli boss Marco Tronchetti Provera - could nominate candidates to be its chief executive.

Italian tyremaker giant Pirelli has moved to block a Chinese state-owned company from taking control of the legacy brand. On Sunday, Pirelli issued a statement to its investors wherein it said the Italian government had ruled that only Camfin - a company controlled by Pirelli boss Marco Tronchetti Provera - could nominate candidates to be its chief executive. Chinese chemical giant Sinochem has been the largest investor in Pirelli since 2015. It owns a 37 per cent stake in the 151-year-old Milan-based company, following a 2017 listing. In 2015, Pirelli was sold for $7.8 billion to a group of investors including ChemChina and Camfin. However, six years later, ChemChina was merged with the state-owned Sinochem. Apart from Sinochem, the Chinese government has an additional 9 per cent stake in Pirelli through its Silk Road investment fund. The developments come in the light of Sinochem, earlier this year, informing the Italian government that it planned to renew and update an existing shareholder pact. Afterwards, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, taking evasive measures, examined the agreement under the "Golden Power Procedure" rules - aimed at protecting businesses that are strategically important to the country. In a statement, Meloni's office said the latest measures were “aimed at creating a network of measures to safeguard Pirelli’s independence and its management”. Watch | Gravitas: Italy exposes China's underground banking network × Italy working to slither out of BRI Notably, Italy in 2019 became the only G7 country to join China's highly controversial and ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Since then, critics have argued that Rome may have served itself up on a platter to Beijing which could gain access to sensitive technologies and vital infrastructure for its own gains. Meloni, however, has hinted that Italy intends to exit BRI. Her government intervening to limit the influence of a Chinese company in a legacy Italian brand was a test of resolve, experts argue, one that she may have passed. Also read | As China attempts image-building, Italians demand payment of damages China's relationship with the West has been on a downward slope in recent times. Akin to most European nations, Italy understands that it cannot sever trade and business ties with China altogether as it would be economically unsustainable. However, it is seeking avenues to limit the influence of the Asian country on strategic assets. Founded in 1872, Pirelli is one of Italy's most storied companies. It specialises in high-end tyres for premium carmakers like Ferrari, Porsche and BMW and is the sole supplier of Formula One cars. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Italian government's intervention blocks Chinese control of tyre giant Pirelli

An ancient stone tablet from the Assyrian empire was unveiled by Iraq, on Sunday (June 18) after being returned by Italy as Baghdad moves to recover antiquities looted from its territory. The recently recovered artefact is said to be a 2,800-year-old stone tablet and would be returned to Iraq’s National Museum in Baghdad.&nbsp;

<h2>What we know about the tablet</h2>

The stone tablet dates back to the Assyrian empire and is marked with the insignia of Shalmaneser III, the Assyrian king who ruled the region of Nimrod (present-day northern Iraq), from 858 to 823 BC. The text on the tablet is said to be written in cuneiform which is the Babylonian alphabet.&nbsp;

Shalmaneser III is said to be one of the greatest Assyrian Kings in the Assyrian state in the north of Iraq “which is of great importance for several reasons,” said the Iraqi Minister of Culture, Ahmed al-Badrani speaking at the Baghdad presidential palace.&nbsp;

He also went on to explain how during the Sumerian civilisation, clay tablets were used as it was easier to write on them but the Assyrian civilization used to engrave stones which is much more difficult to do.&nbsp;

<h2>From Italy to Iraq stone tablet returned</h2>

It was not clear how Italian authorities agreed to handover the stone tablet back to Baghdad except it was given to Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid during a visit to Bologna over the past week.&nbsp;

“We have with us this important artefact, that was in Italy for a long time, we brought it back with us and are handing it over to Iraq’s national museum,” said Rashid, on Sunday, during the ceremony.&nbsp;

He added, “I would like to thank the Italian officials for their efforts and cooperation in bringing back this piece.” According to the Director of Baghdad’s council of antiquities and heritage, the tablet had arrived in the 1980s in Italy, where it was seized by police.&nbsp;

However, the circumstances behind its discovery were unclear, said al-Badrani. Speaking at the event, on Sunday, the Iraqi president also said that they would continue to work to recover all the archaeological pieces of Iraqi history from across the world. Notably, the country’s antiquities have reportedly been the target of looting which increased after the chaos following the United States-led invasion two decades ago.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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An ancient stone tablet from the Assyrian empire was unveiled by Iraq, on Sunday (June 18) after being returned by Italy as Baghdad moves to recover antiquities looted from its territory.

An ancient stone tablet from the Assyrian empire was unveiled by Iraq, on Sunday (June 18) after being returned by Italy as Baghdad moves to recover antiquities looted from its territory. The recently recovered artefact is said to be a 2,800-year-old stone tablet and would be returned to Iraq’s National Museum in Baghdad. What we know about the tablet The stone tablet dates back to the Assyrian empire and is marked with the insignia of Shalmaneser III, the Assyrian king who ruled the region of Nimrod (present-day northern Iraq), from 858 to 823 BC. The text on the tablet is said to be written in cuneiform which is the Babylonian alphabet. Shalmaneser III is said to be one of the greatest Assyrian Kings in the Assyrian state in the north of Iraq “which is of great importance for several reasons,” said the Iraqi Minister of Culture, Ahmed al-Badrani speaking at the Baghdad presidential palace. He also went on to explain how during the Sumerian civilisation, clay tablets were used as it was easier to write on them but the Assyrian civilization used to engrave stones which is much more difficult to do. From Italy to Iraq stone tablet returned It was not clear how Italian authorities agreed to handover the stone tablet back to Baghdad except it was given to Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid during a visit to Bologna over the past week. “We have with us this important artefact, that was in Italy for a long time, we brought it back with us and are handing it over to Iraq’s national museum,” said Rashid, on Sunday, during the ceremony. He added, “I would like to thank the Italian officials for their efforts and cooperation in bringing back this piece.” According to the Director of Baghdad’s council of antiquities and heritage, the tablet had arrived in the 1980s in Italy, where it was seized by police. However, the circumstances behind its discovery were unclear, said al-Badrani. Speaking at the event, on Sunday, the Iraqi president also said that they would continue to work to recover all the archaeological pieces of Iraqi history from across the world. Notably, the country’s antiquities have reportedly been the target of looting which increased after the chaos following the United States-led invasion two decades ago. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Iraq unveils 2,800-year-old ancient stone tablet returned by Italy

Uber has taken a strategic decision to cease its food delivery operations in Italy and exit the Israeli market. The decision comes as uber aims to focus on markets where it can achieve sustainable growth, and establish a dominant presence.

Uber to shut down food delivery in Italy, exit Israel | World Business News

In a sigh of relief for over a billion people across the world as Pope Francis has been discharged from a hospital in Rome just nine days after he underwent successful surgery to repair an abdominal hernia. The 86-year-old left Rome's Hospital in a wheelchair and he was seen smiling and waving to the crowds while being escorted to the Vatican car.

Pope Francis leaves hospital 9 days after surgery

Pentagon whistleblower David Grusch, in some more baffling claims, said that the Vatican was fully aware of non-human intelligence's existence and that it assisted the United States in retrieving a UFO, which was downed and was in possession of Italian dictator Benito Mussolini when the Second World War was at its end.&nbsp;

36-year-old Grusch has served in the Air Force for 14 years and is a decorated Afghanistan combat officer who had earlier worked with the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) and the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA).

His role is to work as the representative of NRO when dealing with the Unidentified Aerial Phenomena Task Force. The task force was established specifically to investigate the UFOs.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/aliens-likely-to-communicate-through-newly-discovered-supernova-claim-scientists-604051">Aliens likely to communicate through newly discovered supernova, claim scientists</a>

<h2>First-ever UFO crash</h2>

Making some shocking revelations, Grusch stated that a top-secret UFO retrieval programme was run by the United States for decades and added that the 'Vatican was involved' in the first-ever crash of a UFO, as per media reports.

Grusch stated that the UFO's first recovery took place in Magenta, Italy in 1933. He added that the UFO was in possession of Italian dictator Mussolini's government until 1944-1945 when America was tipped off about it by Pope Pius XII.&nbsp;

He added that the UFO was partially intact and was kept at a secure airbase until it was retrieved by the US after the fascist Italian regime's collapse.&nbsp;

"1933 was the first recovery in Europe, in Magenta, Italy. They recovered a partially intact vehicle, and the Italian government moved it to a secure airbase in Italy until around 1944-1945. The Pope back-channelled that, and told the Americans what the Italians had and we ended up scooping it," Grusch said. &nbsp;

While clarifying whether the Catholic Church knew about the 'non-human' existence on earth, Grusch said, "Certainly". He said that his claims must be believed because "I have the credentials, and I was an intelligence officer."&nbsp;

He stated that UFO sightings were widely known during Mussolini's dictatorship in Italy.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: Is America hiding Alien technology?

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<h2>Aliens on earth, have killed humans, says whistleblower&nbsp;</h2>

He added that the 'non-human' intelligence present on earth has acted with malevolence and even killed some humans.

"I think the logical fallacy there is because they're advanced, they're kind. We'll never really understand their full intent and that's because we're not them. But I think what appears to be malevolent activity has happened. That's based on nuclear site probing activities and witness testimony. I was briefed by a few individuals on the programme that there were malevolent events like that," he said while answering if aliens have killed humans.&nbsp;

"At the very least, I saw substantive evidence that white-collar crime was committed...unfortunately. I've heard some really un-American things I don't want to repeat right now. There is a sophisticated disinformation campaign targeting the US populace which is extremely unethical and immoral. We are most definitely not alone," he added. 
&nbsp;

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Pentagon whistleblower David Grusch, in some more baffling claims, said that the Vatican was fully aware of non-human intelligence's existence and that it assisted the United States in retrieving a UFO, which was downed and was in possession of Italian dictator Benito Mussolini when the Second World War was at its end.

Pentagon whistleblower David Grusch, in some more baffling claims, said that the Vatican was fully aware of non-human intelligence's existence and that it assisted the United States in retrieving a UFO, which was downed and was in possession of Italian dictator Benito Mussolini when the Second World War was at its end. 36-year-old Grusch has served in the Air Force for 14 years and is a decorated Afghanistan combat officer who had earlier worked with the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) and the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA). His role is to work as the representative of NRO when dealing with the Unidentified Aerial Phenomena Task Force. The task force was established specifically to investigate the UFOs. ALSO READ | Aliens likely to communicate through newly discovered supernova, claim scientists First-ever UFO crash Making some shocking revelations, Grusch stated that a top-secret UFO retrieval programme was run by the United States for decades and added that the 'Vatican was involved' in the first-ever crash of a UFO, as per media reports. Grusch stated that the UFO's first recovery took place in Magenta, Italy in 1933. He added that the UFO was in possession of Italian dictator Mussolini's government until 1944-1945 when America was tipped off about it by Pope Pius XII. He added that the UFO was partially intact and was kept at a secure airbase until it was retrieved by the US after the fascist Italian regime's collapse. "1933 was the first recovery in Europe, in Magenta, Italy. They recovered a partially intact vehicle, and the Italian government moved it to a secure airbase in Italy until around 1944-1945. The Pope back-channelled that, and told the Americans what the Italians had and we ended up scooping it," Grusch said. While clarifying whether the Catholic Church knew about the 'non-human' existence on earth, Grusch said, "Certainly". He said that his claims must be believed because "I have the credentials, and I was an intelligence officer." He stated that UFO sightings were widely known during Mussolini's dictatorship in Italy. WATCH | Gravitas Plus: Is America hiding Alien technology? Aliens on earth, have killed humans, says whistleblower He added that the 'non-human' intelligence present on earth has acted with malevolence and even killed some humans. "I think the logical fallacy there is because they're advanced, they're kind. We'll never really understand their full intent and that's because we're not them. But I think what appears to be malevolent activity has happened. That's based on nuclear site probing activities and witness testimony. I was briefed by a few individuals on the programme that there were malevolent events like that," he said while answering if aliens have killed humans. "At the very least, I saw substantive evidence that white-collar crime was committed...unfortunately. I've heard some really un-American things I don't want to repeat right now. There is a sophisticated disinformation campaign targeting the US populace which is extremely unethical and immoral. We are most definitely not alone," he added. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Alien connection of Vatican? Pentagon whistleblower says Church assisted US in retrieving a UFO

Deadliest ship wreck off the Greece coast kills 79, hundreds still missing

The migrant boat capsized in the Mediterranean and this is being described as one of the worst migrant tragedies off the coast of Greece. At least about 79 migrants reportedly have drowned and there are dozens who are still missing as their boat capsized near Greece's Peloponnese region. The authorities have said that this is still unclear as to how many people were on board.

At least 79 drown in a migrant shipwreck at the Mediterranean Sea, en route to Italy

It's an official day of national morning in Italy with flags flying at half-mast as Italy bid farewell to its former controversial Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi. Remember he happened to be the country's most decorated and at the same time an extremely controversial public figure. Take a look here.

People pay their respects to the late PM Silvio Berlusconi | Italy News

Italy bids farewell to Berlusconi on contested day of mourning

Italians are boiling over with frustration as the price of their beloved pasta has soared to unprecedented heights. Grocery prices across Europe have been climbing due to higher energy and labor costs, as well as the ripple effects of the war in Ukraine. Despite a decline in food commodity costs, the price of pasta remains disproportionately high. A consumer advocacy group called Assoutenti has called for a weeklong national pasta strike, set to begin on June 22nd.

Italians protest soaring Pasta prices with national strike

Former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi, who died on Monday (June 12) at the age of 86, had been accused of conduct that would see women in parties becoming 'sex slaves'.

Known equally for his infamous 'bunga bunga' parties as for his political career, Berlusconi faced trial for allegedly paying girls to ensure they wouldn't inform authorities about the infamous parties.

The allegations on sex slaves were made during a hearing of a case against the former Italian premier in an Italian court.

Berlusconialways claimed that these parties were 'innocent and elegant affairs' but media reports quoted witnesses who talked of 'wild orgies' and female guests dressing up as nuns.

In 2013, Berlusconi was found guilty of paying to have sex with an underage Moroccan belly dancer.

Karima El-Mahroug, the belly dancer, was 17 at the time. The belly dancer was also known as Ruby The Heartstealer.

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Karima El-Mahroug, the belly dancer (right) can be seen in the picture above.

Current trial against Berlusconi stems from the trial in 2013.&nbsp;

During the hearing, prosecutor Tiziana Siciliano said that 'facts' had been 'handed down to history by now'.

"The facts have been handed down to history by now, the serving premier was wont to systematically spice up his evening entertainments hosting in his home groups of odalisques, paid sex slaves," she said as quoted by The Daiy Mail.&nbsp;

"Berlusconi is the former friend of Putin and now an old man. He was a sultan in his own harem. A very rich and powerful man, a prime minister who accompanied himself with friends like Putin, who is now bringing the world to its knees," she added.

"He paid for the silence of witnesses with money, houses, cars and horses, every human commodity that you can imagine. What happened at the time at these parties was morally questionable and incredible," said Siciliano further.

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Former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi, who died on Monday (June 12) at the age of 86, had been accused of conduct that would see women in parties becoming 'sex slaves'.

Former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi, who died on Monday (June 12) at the age of 86, had been accused of conduct that would see women in parties becoming 'sex slaves'. Known equally for his infamous 'bunga bunga' parties as for his political career, Berlusconi faced trial for allegedly paying girls to ensure they wouldn't inform authorities about the infamous parties. The allegations on sex slaves were made during a hearing of a case against the former Italian premier in an Italian court. Berlusconialways claimed that these parties were 'innocent and elegant affairs' but media reports quoted witnesses who talked of 'wild orgies' and female guests dressing up as nuns. In 2013, Berlusconi was found guilty of paying to have sex with an underage Moroccan belly dancer. Karima El-Mahroug, the belly dancer, was 17 at the time. The belly dancer was also known as Ruby The Heartstealer. Karima El-Mahroug, the belly dancer (right) can be seen in the picture above. Current trial against Berlusconi stems from the trial in 2013. During the hearing, prosecutor Tiziana Siciliano said that 'facts' had been 'handed down to history by now'. "The facts have been handed down to history by now, the serving premier was wont to systematically spice up his evening entertainments hosting in his home groups of odalisques, paid sex slaves," she said as quoted by The Daiy Mail. "Berlusconi is the former friend of Putin and now an old man. He was a sultan in his own harem. A very rich and powerful man, a prime minister who accompanied himself with friends like Putin, who is now bringing the world to its knees," she added. "He paid for the silence of witnesses with money, houses, cars and horses, every human commodity that you can imagine. What happened at the time at these parties was morally questionable and incredible," said Siciliano further. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Bunga bunga parties, 'sex slaves': The most controversial episode in Berlusconi's life

Italians are preparing to take a stand against skyrocketing pasta prices as the cost of this beloved culinary staple has surged at a rate twice that of inflation, a report in the Associated Press said. &nbsp;

Frustrated with the lack of intervention from the government, a consumer advocacy group called Assoutenti has called for a weeklong national pasta strike set to commence on June 22nd.&nbsp;

This unprecedented move aims to bring attention to the disproportionate price-to-production cost ratio and force retailers to address the issue. Grocery prices have been rising across Europe due to various factors, including higher energy and labor costs, but the pasta price surge has hit Italian households particularly hard.

The ‘Macaroni’ Strike

Associated Press reported that the upcoming pasta strike, dubbed the 'Macaroni Strike' by Furio Truzzi, the president of Assoutenti, is inspired by the Anglo-Saxon tradition of boycotting goods.&nbsp;

Italians hope that the act of keeping pasta off the shelves will exert enough pressure on retailers to drive prices down. Assoutenti strongly believes that the current pricing of pasta is unjustifiably high and does not align with the actual production costs involved.

Government Response and Public Impact

While some European countries have implemented price controls or brokered agreements with grocery stores to alleviate the burden on consumers, the Italian government has chosen not to intervene directly in the market. Instead, they plan to enhance price monitoring and collaborate closely with the country's 20 regions. However, this decision has been met with disappointment from Italians who were hoping for more decisive action.

Italian families feel the strain of rising grocery costs, with an average yearly expenditure increase of €915 ($984). The impact extends beyond pasta, affecting other essential items such as sugar, rice, olive oil, and potatoes.&nbsp;

To cope with the situation, a significant portion of the population has resorted to reducing their grocery store spending and opting for discount stores. However, even discount prices are not as affordable as they used to be, exacerbating the challenges faced by pensioners and low-income individuals.

Implications and Demands

The pasta crisis in Italy highlights the growing divide between those who can afford everyday essentials and those who struggle to make ends meet. As food banks witness a surge in demand, the situation has drawn attention to the urgent need for relief measures.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the French government has reached a three-month agreement with supermarket chains to reduce prices on hundreds of staple foods, which is expected to extend throughout the summer. Similar discussions have taken place&nbsp;in the United Kingdom, where food inflation has reached a 45-year high.

Some other countries like&nbsp;Hungary and Croatia&nbsp;have resorted to mandating price controls on specific items like cooking oil, pork cuts, wheat flour, and milk. However, economists caution that such measures could potentially worsen food inflation by stimulating demand while discouraging new supply.

As Italy braces for the national pasta strike, the world's eyes&nbsp;are on this unique form of protest. The outcome remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: Italians are determined to bring about change and pasta back to their tables.

(With Inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Italians are preparing to take a stand against skyrocketing pasta prices as the cost of this beloved culinary staple has surged at a rate twice that of inflation, a report in the Associated Press said.

Italians are preparing to take a stand against skyrocketing pasta prices as the cost of this beloved culinary staple has surged at a rate twice that of inflation, a report in the Associated Press said. Frustrated with the lack of intervention from the government, a consumer advocacy group called Assoutenti has called for a weeklong national pasta strike set to commence on June 22nd. This unprecedented move aims to bring attention to the disproportionate price-to-production cost ratio and force retailers to address the issue. Grocery prices have been rising across Europe due to various factors, including higher energy and labor costs, but the pasta price surge has hit Italian households particularly hard. The ‘Macaroni’ Strike Associated Press reported that the upcoming pasta strike, dubbed the 'Macaroni Strike' by Furio Truzzi, the president of Assoutenti, is inspired by the Anglo-Saxon tradition of boycotting goods. Italians hope that the act of keeping pasta off the shelves will exert enough pressure on retailers to drive prices down. Assoutenti strongly believes that the current pricing of pasta is unjustifiably high and does not align with the actual production costs involved. Government Response and Public Impact While some European countries have implemented price controls or brokered agreements with grocery stores to alleviate the burden on consumers, the Italian government has chosen not to intervene directly in the market. Instead, they plan to enhance price monitoring and collaborate closely with the country's 20 regions. However, this decision has been met with disappointment from Italians who were hoping for more decisive action. Italian families feel the strain of rising grocery costs, with an average yearly expenditure increase of €915 ($984). The impact extends beyond pasta, affecting other essential items such as sugar, rice, olive oil, and potatoes. To cope with the situation, a significant portion of the population has resorted to reducing their grocery store spending and opting for discount stores. However, even discount prices are not as affordable as they used to be, exacerbating the challenges faced by pensioners and low-income individuals. Implications and Demands The pasta crisis in Italy highlights the growing divide between those who can afford everyday essentials and those who struggle to make ends meet. As food banks witness a surge in demand, the situation has drawn attention to the urgent need for relief measures. Meanwhile, the French government has reached a three-month agreement with supermarket chains to reduce prices on hundreds of staple foods, which is expected to extend throughout the summer. Similar discussions have taken place in the United Kingdom, where food inflation has reached a 45-year high. Some other countries like Hungary and Croatia have resorted to mandating price controls on specific items like cooking oil, pork cuts, wheat flour, and milk. However, economists caution that such measures could potentially worsen food inflation by stimulating demand while discouraging new supply. As Italy braces for the national pasta strike, the world's eyes are on this unique form of protest. The outcome remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: Italians are determined to bring about change and pasta back to their tables. (With Inputs from agencies)

From spaghetti to strike: Italy's national pasta protest amid rising food prices

Silvio Berlusconi – who has died at 86 – dominated Italian public life for decades as a billionaire media mogul and the country's longest serving premier. But he was always dogged by scandal.

The larger-than-life character, who once compared himself to Jesus, was a kind of Trump before Trump.

He wielded huge influence through his television and newspaper interests – he effectively invented commercial TV in Italy – his ownership of AC Milan football club, and his sheer wealth, as Italy's richest person for a decade.

Long before Donald Trump parlayed business and reality television stardom into a White House bid, Berlusconi charmed millions of Italians by presenting himself as a self-made man who enjoyed life and spoke his mind, even to the extent of insulting fellow leaders.

To his critics, however, the right-winger was a tax-evading playboy who used his vast media empire to further his political career, and then exploited his power to protect his business interests.

He spent much of his life embroiled in legal action, and the cases around his notorious "Bunga Bunga" sex parties, attended by young girls including underage escorts, were only wrapped up in February 2023.

Despite remaining president of his Forza Italia party, a junior partner in Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's rightwing coalition, he had largely retired from public view in recent years as he suffered increasing health problems.

But he still maintained his pride in his appearance and was always smartly dressed, his slicked-back hair never showing the slightest trace of grey, his face fixed in time by years of plastic surgery.

Berlusconi was hospitalised for 11 days in September 2020 after contracting coronavirus, describing it as "perhaps the most difficult ordeal of my life".&nbsp;

In April, doctors revealed he was suffering from leukaemia after he was admitted to hospital for a lung infection. He stayed 45 days and on leaving, declared: "I won again!"

But three weeks later he was admitted again for what doctors said were scheduled checks, and a few days later, he died.

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<h2>'Contract with Italians'</h2>

Berlusconi burst onto the political scene in the early 1990s, after building up a media and real estate business, where he was viewed as a breath of fresh air after a period of corruption and scandal.

Pitching himself as a modern Italian success story, and backed by his TV stations and newspapers, he secured his first election victory in 1994 with his new movement, Forza Italia (Go Italy!), named after a football chant.

He lasted as prime minister for only nine months, but bounced back with another election win in 2001 after a populist campaign promising jobs and economic growth, signing a "Contract with Italians" live on television.&nbsp;

He served until 2006, and returned again as prime minister between 2008 and 2011, making him the longest-serving premier in Italy's post-war history.

He was forced to quit as debt-laden Italy – the eurozone's third largest economy – came under intense pressure during the financial crisis.&nbsp;

The tenure of the man dubbed "Il Cavaliere" (The Knight) divided Italians, as much as over his policies – including his controversial decision to join the US-led invasion of Iraq – as his entire approach to life.

Throughout his time in office, prosecutors snapped at his heels, even as his supporters in parliament passed laws to shield him and his allies.

Despite multiple court cases – he claimed in 2021 he had gone through 86 trials – he never spent any time behind bars and successfully appealed convictions for fraud and corruption early in his political career.

In 2013, Berlusconi received a definitive conviction for tax fraud, which saw him carry out community service in a care home for sufferers of Alzheimer's.

He was also long suspected of links to the mafia, but strongly denied it.

<h2>'Bunga Bunga' disgrace</h2>

On the world stage, Berlusconi was known for his friendships with the likes of Libya's Moamer Kadhafi and Russian President Vladimir Putin – the latter of whom he controversially defended following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

He had no time for traditional diplomacy, once likening a German European MP to a Nazi and describing US President Barack Obama as "suntanned".

His image was further tarnished when lurid details emerged of his sex parties at his villa near Milan with its private disco, during a hugely embarrassing trial involving a 17-year-old nightclub dancer.

Berlusconi was sentenced to seven years in prison in 2013 for paying for sex with Karima El-Mahroug, known as "Ruby the Heart Stealer" – but this was later overturned after the judge said there was reasonable doubt over whether he knew she was underage.

He then stood accused of bribing witnesses to lie about his parties, which he always insisted were elegant dinners. He was acquitted in three related trials.

A relationship with another teenager led to the end of his second marriage with former actress Veronica Lario, who left him in 2009 over his "cavorting with minors".

In March 2022, he held a bizarre fake wedding with his girlfriend Marta Fascina, then 32.

<img alt="Silvio Berlusconi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bd9f38db-db2e-4c0a-b659-d5c4df70dfc4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/5_85.jpg" />

<h2>Football glory</h2>

Berlusconi was born in 1936 in Milan to a bank employee father and a housewife mother. He went on to father five children, all involved in the running of his business empire.&nbsp;

As a young man, he was quick to realise his talents as an entertainer.

A huge fan of Nat King Cole, he played double bass in a band and made club audiences laugh with jokes during breaks from his law studies at the University of Milan.

As a student, he worked briefly as a cruise ship singer before launching a lucrative career in the booming construction sector in his 20s, which delivered his first fortune.

These funds were used to build a vast conglomerate spanning shops, cinemas, publishers, newspapers and cable television, where he broke new ground with commercial programmes filled with scantily clad women.

Crucially for his public persona, his empire also included football, one of Italy's great passions.

As well as providing money for AC Milan, he regularly delivered dressing room and training ground pep talks during a period in which the club became one of the world's most celebrated and trophied success stories.&nbsp;

Five of AC Milan's seven European Cup/Champions League triumphs were achieved under Berlusconi's 31-year ownership.

He sold the club in 2017 after years of lacklustre performances, and in 2018 bought Monza, then in Italy's third tier.

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Silvio Berlusconi – who has died at 86 – dominated Italian public life for decades as a billionaire media mogul and the country's longest serving premier. But he was always dogged by scandal.

Silvio Berlusconi – who has died at 86 – dominated Italian public life for decades as a billionaire media mogul and the country's longest serving premier. But he was always dogged by scandal. The larger-than-life character, who once compared himself to Jesus, was a kind of Trump before Trump. He wielded huge influence through his television and newspaper interests – he effectively invented commercial TV in Italy – his ownership of AC Milan football club, and his sheer wealth, as Italy's richest person for a decade. Long before Donald Trump parlayed business and reality television stardom into a White House bid, Berlusconi charmed millions of Italians by presenting himself as a self-made man who enjoyed life and spoke his mind, even to the extent of insulting fellow leaders. To his critics, however, the right-winger was a tax-evading playboy who used his vast media empire to further his political career, and then exploited his power to protect his business interests. He spent much of his life embroiled in legal action, and the cases around his notorious "Bunga Bunga" sex parties, attended by young girls including underage escorts, were only wrapped up in February 2023. Despite remaining president of his Forza Italia party, a junior partner in Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's rightwing coalition, he had largely retired from public view in recent years as he suffered increasing health problems. But he still maintained his pride in his appearance and was always smartly dressed, his slicked-back hair never showing the slightest trace of grey, his face fixed in time by years of plastic surgery. Berlusconi was hospitalised for 11 days in September 2020 after contracting coronavirus, describing it as "perhaps the most difficult ordeal of my life". In April, doctors revealed he was suffering from leukaemia after he was admitted to hospital for a lung infection. He stayed 45 days and on leaving, declared: "I won again!" But three weeks later he was admitted again for what doctors said were scheduled checks, and a few days later, he died. 'Contract with Italians' Berlusconi burst onto the political scene in the early 1990s, after building up a media and real estate business, where he was viewed as a breath of fresh air after a period of corruption and scandal. Pitching himself as a modern Italian success story, and backed by his TV stations and newspapers, he secured his first election victory in 1994 with his new movement, Forza Italia (Go Italy!), named after a football chant. He lasted as prime minister for only nine months, but bounced back with another election win in 2001 after a populist campaign promising jobs and economic growth, signing a "Contract with Italians" live on television. He served until 2006, and returned again as prime minister between 2008 and 2011, making him the longest-serving premier in Italy's post-war history. He was forced to quit as debt-laden Italy – the eurozone's third largest economy – came under intense pressure during the financial crisis. The tenure of the man dubbed "Il Cavaliere" (The Knight) divided Italians, as much as over his policies – including his controversial decision to join the US-led invasion of Iraq – as his entire approach to life. Throughout his time in office, prosecutors snapped at his heels, even as his supporters in parliament passed laws to shield him and his allies. Despite multiple court cases – he claimed in 2021 he had gone through 86 trials – he never spent any time behind bars and successfully appealed convictions for fraud and corruption early in his political career. In 2013, Berlusconi received a definitive conviction for tax fraud, which saw him carry out community service in a care home for sufferers of Alzheimer's. He was also long suspected of links to the mafia, but strongly denied it. 'Bunga Bunga' disgrace On the world stage, Berlusconi was known for his friendships with the likes of Libya's Moamer Kadhafi and Russian President Vladimir Putin – the latter of whom he controversially defended following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. He had no time for traditional diplomacy, once likening a German European MP to a Nazi and describing US President Barack Obama as "suntanned". His image was further tarnished when lurid details emerged of his sex parties at his villa near Milan with its private disco, during a hugely embarrassing trial involving a 17-year-old nightclub dancer. Berlusconi was sentenced to seven years in prison in 2013 for paying for sex with Karima El-Mahroug, known as "Ruby the Heart Stealer" – but this was later overturned after the judge said there was reasonable doubt over whether he knew she was underage. He then stood accused of bribing witnesses to lie about his parties, which he always insisted were elegant dinners. He was acquitted in three related trials. A relationship with another teenager led to the end of his second marriage with former actress Veronica Lario, who left him in 2009 over his "cavorting with minors". In March 2022, he held a bizarre fake wedding with his girlfriend Marta Fascina, then 32. Football glory Berlusconi was born in 1936 in Milan to a bank employee father and a housewife mother. He went on to father five children, all involved in the running of his business empire. As a young man, he was quick to realise his talents as an entertainer. A huge fan of Nat King Cole, he played double bass in a band and made club audiences laugh with jokes during breaks from his law studies at the University of Milan. As a student, he worked briefly as a cruise ship singer before launching a lucrative career in the booming construction sector in his 20s, which delivered his first fortune. These funds were used to build a vast conglomerate spanning shops, cinemas, publishers, newspapers and cable television, where he broke new ground with commercial programmes filled with scantily clad women. Crucially for his public persona, his empire also included football, one of Italy's great passions. As well as providing money for AC Milan, he regularly delivered dressing room and training ground pep talks during a period in which the club became one of the world's most celebrated and trophied success stories. Five of AC Milan's seven European Cup/Champions League triumphs were achieved under Berlusconi's 31-year ownership. He sold the club in 2017 after years of lacklustre performances, and in 2018 bought Monza, then in Italy's third tier. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Bling and bunga bunga parties: The colourful life of Italy's Silvio Berlusconi

Former Italian prime minister Silvio Berlusconi has died aged 86 after suffering from serious health problems that kept him in hospital over the last few months. He was first&nbsp;hospitalised for a lung infection in 2020 after contracting COVID-19.&nbsp;

Defence Minister&nbsp;Guido Crosetto took to Twitter to mourn Berlusconi's death and said his departure amounted to the end of an era.&nbsp;

"I loved him very much. Farewell Silvio," Crosetto said.

Having been at the centre of Rome's power corridor, not once but thrice, Berlusconi had become extremely frail during the last essay of his life. He was diagnosed with persistent&nbsp;leukaemia and admitted to&nbsp;Milan’s San Raffaele Hospital earlier this year. According to reports he died in the same hospital on Monday morning.&nbsp;

Despite a career tainted by the infamous 'bunga-bunga' sex parties,&nbsp;Berlusconi, nicknamed Il Cavaliere (The Knight), remained one of Italy's most flamboyant politicians.&nbsp;

Berlusconi's death comes a month after he gave his first&nbsp;public address since being hospitalised.&nbsp;Delivering a video message to his Forza Italia party members, Berlusconi said he was ready to get back to work.&nbsp;

“Here I am, here for you, wearing a shirt and jacket for the first time in a month," said the 86-year-old billionaire media mogul in a pre-recorded video.&nbsp;

"I never stopped, not even in the past few weeks. worked on the party's new structure and I'm ready to return to work with you and fight alongside you our fights for freedom," he added.&nbsp;

According to Italian media reports, the video was filmed&nbsp;after Berlusconi was not allowed to leave the hospital by doctors and relatives as he would have tried to attend the party's two-day convention in Milan.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-ex-pm-silvio-berlusconi-says-he-is-ready-to-be-back-after-serious-illness-589906">Also read |&nbsp;Italy ex-PM Silvio Berlusconi says he is ready to get back at work after serious illness</a>

<h2>The genesis&nbsp;</h2>

Born in 1936 to a middle-class family, Berlusconi's rise to power is a story that should inspire most, if it is not for his unconventional life choices. As the owner of broadcasting giant Mediaset, he first entered the world of media in 1973 by setting up a small cable television company called TeleMilano.&nbsp;

The channel would later evolve into Canale 5 as Berlusconi bought two more channels before moving his operations to central Milan and broadcasting over the airwaves. This move would eventually pave the way for his modern-day media mogul status as the owner of Mediaset which would also fuel his political aspirations.&nbsp;

<h2>The political life of Berlusconi</h2>

Berlusconi founded Italy's centre-right party Forza Italia in the summer of 1994 to beat the 'communists'. His party pioneered the populist brand of politics in the European country and propelled him to the higher echelons of the bureaucracy.&nbsp;

He won the 1994 general election and became the PM for a brief period before fissures within the coalition forced him to vacate the spot.&nbsp;

In 2001, Berlusconi had a second crack at the position and went on to&nbsp;become the longest-serving PM in Italy's history since the world war. At the pinnacle of his power, Berlusconi in 2006 declared himself "the Jesus Christ of politics".&nbsp;

<h2>The sporting interests of Berlusconi</h2>

Apart from his obvious interests, Berlusconi was known for his sporting taste. He owned the decorated Seria A club AC Milan for over three decades before selling it to Chinese investors for $858 million in 2017.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-serving-as-pm-thrice-to-hosting-bunga-bunga-parties-the-controversial-life-of-silvio-berlusconi-580274" target="_blank">Also read | From serving as PM thrice to hosting 'bunga-bunga' parties - the controversial life of Silvio Berlusconi</a>

After selling his prized team, Berlusconi went on to buy small Lombardy side AC Monza for an estimated $3.4 million. The club went from playing in the third division of Italian football to playing in Seria A within a five-year&nbsp;timespan.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Former Italian prime minister Silvio Berlusconi has died aged 86 after suffering from serious health problems that kept him in hospital over the last few months.

Former Italian prime minister Silvio Berlusconi has died aged 86 after suffering from serious health problems that kept him in hospital over the last few months. He was first hospitalised for a lung infection in 2020 after contracting COVID-19. Defence Minister Guido Crosetto took to Twitter to mourn Berlusconi's death and said his departure amounted to the end of an era. "I loved him very much. Farewell Silvio," Crosetto said. Having been at the centre of Rome's power corridor, not once but thrice, Berlusconi had become extremely frail during the last essay of his life. He was diagnosed with persistent leukaemia and admitted to Milan’s San Raffaele Hospital earlier this year. According to reports he died in the same hospital on Monday morning. Despite a career tainted by the infamous 'bunga-bunga' sex parties, Berlusconi, nicknamed Il Cavaliere (The Knight), remained one of Italy's most flamboyant politicians. Berlusconi's death comes a month after he gave his first public address since being hospitalised. Delivering a video message to his Forza Italia party members, Berlusconi said he was ready to get back to work. “Here I am, here for you, wearing a shirt and jacket for the first time in a month," said the 86-year-old billionaire media mogul in a pre-recorded video. "I never stopped, not even in the past few weeks. worked on the party's new structure and I'm ready to return to work with you and fight alongside you our fights for freedom," he added. According to Italian media reports, the video was filmed after Berlusconi was not allowed to leave the hospital by doctors and relatives as he would have tried to attend the party's two-day convention in Milan. Also read | Italy ex-PM Silvio Berlusconi says he is ready to get back at work after serious illness The genesis Born in 1936 to a middle-class family, Berlusconi's rise to power is a story that should inspire most, if it is not for his unconventional life choices. As the owner of broadcasting giant Mediaset, he first entered the world of media in 1973 by setting up a small cable television company called TeleMilano. The channel would later evolve into Canale 5 as Berlusconi bought two more channels before moving his operations to central Milan and broadcasting over the airwaves. This move would eventually pave the way for his modern-day media mogul status as the owner of Mediaset which would also fuel his political aspirations. The political life of Berlusconi Berlusconi founded Italy's centre-right party Forza Italia in the summer of 1994 to beat the 'communists'. His party pioneered the populist brand of politics in the European country and propelled him to the higher echelons of the bureaucracy. He won the 1994 general election and became the PM for a brief period before fissures within the coalition forced him to vacate the spot. In 2001, Berlusconi had a second crack at the position and went on to become the longest-serving PM in Italy's history since the world war. At the pinnacle of his power, Berlusconi in 2006 declared himself "the Jesus Christ of politics". The sporting interests of Berlusconi Apart from his obvious interests, Berlusconi was known for his sporting taste. He owned the decorated Seria A club AC Milan for over three decades before selling it to Chinese investors for $858 million in 2017. Also read | From serving as PM thrice to hosting 'bunga-bunga' parties - the controversial life of Silvio Berlusconi After selling his prized team, Berlusconi went on to buy small Lombardy side AC Monza for an estimated $3.4 million. The club went from playing in the third division of Italian football to playing in Seria A within a five-year timespan. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Former Italian PM and media mogul Silvio Berlusconi dies aged 86

Silvio Berlusconi's name will forever be associated with AC Milan, the football club he took over in the 1980s and with his immense wealth turned from a debt-ridden mess to a European powerhouse.

Berlusconi, whose death at the age of 86 was confirmed on Monday, reigned supreme at Milan from 1986 until 2017, during which time the club won 29 trophies, including five Champions League and eight Italian league titles.

The club said it was "grieving the passing of the unforgettable Silvio Berlusconi" as it led the tributes to its former owner.

Milan was a genuine passion for Berlusconi but his success as owner and the modern image he gave the club was a formidably effective communication tool that he used in the service of his business and political career.

Some of his teams made history, such as Arrigo Sacchi's revolutionary and all-conquering side of the late 1980s and his successor Fabio Capello's outfit which hammered Barcelona's "Dream Team" 4-0 in the 1994 Champions League final – the third European crown of the Berlusconi era.

During that period some of the game's greatest players wore Milan's famous red and black kit – from flying Dutchmen Marco Van Basten, Ruud Gullit and Frank Rijkaard to the likes of homegrown heroes Franco Baresi and Paolo Maldini.

But success had a price, and in an era when players changed clubs far less frequently than they do now, Berlusconi was among the pioneers of the modern-day football business.

One of the most notorious signings of the Berlusconi era was Gianluigi Lentini, a rampaging winger bought for a world-record fee in 1992 from a Torino team being dismantled at the same rate as their controversial owner Gian Mauro Borsano's finances imploded.

Lentini failed to shine on the bigger San Siro stage and the summer after a poor display in the 1993 Champions League final loss to Bernard Tapie's Marseille a major car accident signalled the beginning of the end.

Milan won the Champions League two more times this millennium as their star-studded teams beat Italian rivals Juventus in 2003 and then Liverpool in 2007, although that was two years after they lost an epic final to the Reds on penalties after letting slip a three-goal half-time lead.

The 2011 Serie A title was the last major honour won under Berlusconi, who with AC Milan in seemingly terminal decline sold his majority stake to Chinese businessman Li Yonghong six years later for more than 700 million euros ($754 million at today's conversion rates).

<img alt=" AC Milan's president Silvio Berlusconi celebrates with the trophy" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="acbff69b-a3f0-4d9e-971e-fdb36a194a26" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/2_161.jpg" />

<h2>Dream Monza promotion</h2>

Success didn't return to the red and black half of Milan until last season's Scudetto, won under the more parsimonious ownership of American investment fund Elliott, who took control of the club when Li Yonghong failed to pay debts.

On his departure, Berlusconi acknowledged in a message to fans that the ownership of football clubs had moved into another financial dimension: "To be competitive at the highest level of modern football requires investment and resources that a single family can no longer take on."&nbsp;

Remaining a fan of the team "my dad taught me to love as a kid", he nonetheless took a tiny portion of the money he earned selling Milan to purchase then third-tier Monza in 2018.&nbsp;

He vowed to take Monza to Serie A and with the help of his long-time right-hand man Adriano Galliani the team based near Milan reached the top flight for the first time in their history last season.

Monza are guaranteed another season in the top division after finishing the just-completed campaign in 11th position.

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Silvio Berlusconi's name will forever be associated with AC Milan, the football club he took over in the 1980s and with his immense wealth turned from a debt-ridden mess to a European powerhouse.

Silvio Berlusconi's name will forever be associated with AC Milan, the football club he took over in the 1980s and with his immense wealth turned from a debt-ridden mess to a European powerhouse. Berlusconi, whose death at the age of 86 was confirmed on Monday, reigned supreme at Milan from 1986 until 2017, during which time the club won 29 trophies, including five Champions League and eight Italian league titles. The club said it was "grieving the passing of the unforgettable Silvio Berlusconi" as it led the tributes to its former owner. Milan was a genuine passion for Berlusconi but his success as owner and the modern image he gave the club was a formidably effective communication tool that he used in the service of his business and political career. Some of his teams made history, such as Arrigo Sacchi's revolutionary and all-conquering side of the late 1980s and his successor Fabio Capello's outfit which hammered Barcelona's "Dream Team" 4-0 in the 1994 Champions League final – the third European crown of the Berlusconi era. During that period some of the game's greatest players wore Milan's famous red and black kit – from flying Dutchmen Marco Van Basten, Ruud Gullit and Frank Rijkaard to the likes of homegrown heroes Franco Baresi and Paolo Maldini. But success had a price, and in an era when players changed clubs far less frequently than they do now, Berlusconi was among the pioneers of the modern-day football business. One of the most notorious signings of the Berlusconi era was Gianluigi Lentini, a rampaging winger bought for a world-record fee in 1992 from a Torino team being dismantled at the same rate as their controversial owner Gian Mauro Borsano's finances imploded. Lentini failed to shine on the bigger San Siro stage and the summer after a poor display in the 1993 Champions League final loss to Bernard Tapie's Marseille a major car accident signalled the beginning of the end. Milan won the Champions League two more times this millennium as their star-studded teams beat Italian rivals Juventus in 2003 and then Liverpool in 2007, although that was two years after they lost an epic final to the Reds on penalties after letting slip a three-goal half-time lead. The 2011 Serie A title was the last major honour won under Berlusconi, who with AC Milan in seemingly terminal decline sold his majority stake to Chinese businessman Li Yonghong six years later for more than 700 million euros ($754 million at today's conversion rates). Dream Monza promotion Success didn't return to the red and black half of Milan until last season's Scudetto, won under the more parsimonious ownership of American investment fund Elliott, who took control of the club when Li Yonghong failed to pay debts. On his departure, Berlusconi acknowledged in a message to fans that the ownership of football clubs had moved into another financial dimension: "To be competitive at the highest level of modern football requires investment and resources that a single family can no longer take on." Remaining a fan of the team "my dad taught me to love as a kid", he nonetheless took a tiny portion of the money he earned selling Milan to purchase then third-tier Monza in 2018. He vowed to take Monza to Serie A and with the help of his long-time right-hand man Adriano Galliani the team based near Milan reached the top flight for the first time in their history last season. Monza are guaranteed another season in the top division after finishing the just-completed campaign in 11th position. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Berlusconi and AC Milan - passion, politics and trophies

Italy's former Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi, who created Italy's largest media company before transforming the political landscape of the country died at the age of 86. Berlusconi who led three Italian governments between 1994 and 2011 was suffering from leukemia and had recently developed a lung infection. He died at the San Rafael Hospital in Milan after spending six weeks undergoing treatment for the lung infection.

Former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi dies | Latest News

In Pics | A timeline of highs and lows of Silvio Berlusconi's political career

The former Prime Minister of Italy Silvio Berlusconi, who created Italy's largest Media company before transforming into the country's political landscape, has died at the age of 86. Berlusconi who led three Italian governments between 1994 and 2011 was suffering from leukemia for some time and had recently developed a lung infection he died at the San Raffaele hospital in Milan after spending six weeks undergoing treatment for the lung infection.

Silvio Berlusconi dies at the age of 86 | Italy News

Italian Special Forces border the Turkish cargo ship mid-ocean in an effort to rescue the crew. The crew alerted the Italian forces when they saw a group of unidentified people on board, some of whom were allegedly armed. The footage of them showed them wandering around the ship possibly carrying sharp objects.

Italy's special forces rescue Turkish crew

The Vatican released a statement on Friday saying that Pope Francis has started his work after spending another peaceful&nbsp;night in the hospital following his hernia operation.

The head of the Catholic Church had breakfast Friday before spending "most of the morning in an armchair" rather than in bed, the Vatican said.

"This allowed him to read the newspapers and start working again," it said in a statement.

<h2>Pope Francis woke up cheerful after surgery</h2>

Pope's surgeon at Rome's Gemelli Hospital said that he woke up cheerful after the abdominal operation.

"The Holy Father reacted well both to the surgery and the anaesthesia. He is already awake... he has already cracked a joke," surgeon Sergio Alfieri told reporters.

The Vatican said that the pontiff is expected to remain hospitalised for several days.

<h2>Surgery ahead of tightly-scheduled August</h2>

The Pope is expected to embark on several long trips in the month of August, raising concerns about whether his recent medical complications would allow him to do so. He is expected to visit Portugal in the first week of August. Later on, he will visit Mongolia at the end of the month. He&nbsp;is also scheduled to visit the French city of Marseille in September.

Pope Francis, the 86-year-old leader of the Catholic Church, has faced numerous health challenges throughout his life.

From a lung operation in his youth to ongoing issues with his knees, the pontiff has been dealing with health issues from a young age.&nbsp;

At the age of 21, Jorge Bergoglio, now known as Pope Francis, faced a life-threatening situation when he developed pleurisy, which is an inflammation of the tissues surrounding the lung. Surgeons had to remove three pulmonary cysts and a small portion of his upper right lung, leading to a lengthy and painful recovery.

The Pope has also dealt with sciatica, a chronic nerve condition causing back, hip, and leg pain. This condition has occasionally forced him to cancel official events. The pope explained that his distinctive limp, which he compared to "walking like a broody chicken", is actually due to a flat foot.&nbsp;

In the past, the 86-year-old sought acupuncture treatment from a Chinese practitioner to alleviate his back pain. Additionally, he faced health issues, such as a gallbladder infection in the late 1970s or early 1980s, a heart condition in 2004, and problems with a fatty liver, which he managed by making dietary changes.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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The Vatican released a statement on Friday saying that Pope Francis has started his work after spending another peaceful night in the hospital following his hernia operation.

The Vatican released a statement on Friday saying that Pope Francis has started his work after spending another peaceful night in the hospital following his hernia operation. The head of the Catholic Church had breakfast Friday before spending "most of the morning in an armchair" rather than in bed, the Vatican said. "This allowed him to read the newspapers and start working again," it said in a statement. Pope Francis woke up cheerful after surgery Pope's surgeon at Rome's Gemelli Hospital said that he woke up cheerful after the abdominal operation. "The Holy Father reacted well both to the surgery and the anaesthesia. He is already awake... he has already cracked a joke," surgeon Sergio Alfieri told reporters. The Vatican said that the pontiff is expected to remain hospitalised for several days. Surgery ahead of tightly-scheduled August The Pope is expected to embark on several long trips in the month of August, raising concerns about whether his recent medical complications would allow him to do so. He is expected to visit Portugal in the first week of August. Later on, he will visit Mongolia at the end of the month. He is also scheduled to visit the French city of Marseille in September. Pope Francis, the 86-year-old leader of the Catholic Church, has faced numerous health challenges throughout his life. From a lung operation in his youth to ongoing issues with his knees, the pontiff has been dealing with health issues from a young age. At the age of 21, Jorge Bergoglio, now known as Pope Francis, faced a life-threatening situation when he developed pleurisy, which is an inflammation of the tissues surrounding the lung. Surgeons had to remove three pulmonary cysts and a small portion of his upper right lung, leading to a lengthy and painful recovery. The Pope has also dealt with sciatica, a chronic nerve condition causing back, hip, and leg pain. This condition has occasionally forced him to cancel official events. The pope explained that his distinctive limp, which he compared to "walking like a broody chicken", is actually due to a flat foot. In the past, the 86-year-old sought acupuncture treatment from a Chinese practitioner to alleviate his back pain. Additionally, he faced health issues, such as a gallbladder infection in the late 1970s or early 1980s, a heart condition in 2004, and problems with a fatty liver, which he managed by making dietary changes. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Pope Francis starts working from hospital after abdomen surgery

The Vatican released a statement on Wednesday saying that Pope Francis' abdominal hernia surgery was completed without any complications.

The 86-year-old pontiff was admitted to the Gemelli hospital in Rome earlier in the day.&nbsp;

"The operation is over, it went without complications and lasted three hours," the Vatican press office said in a short statement on Telegram.

All papal audiences have been called off until June 18.

Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni released a statement saying that the pope was suffering from a hernia that was "causing recurrent, painful and worsening" symptoms.

As per reports, the hernia was most likely caused by scars from a colon operation the Argentine pontiff underwent in the year 2021.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-the-many-health-troubles-of-pope-francis-as-he-goes-for-intestinal-surgery-601750">Explained: The many health troubles faced by Pope Francis as he goes for intestinal surgery</a>

<h2>Pope Francis awake, cracking jokes after surgery</h2>

Pope's surgeon at Rome's Gemelli hospital said that he is awake and cracking jokes after the abdominal operation.

"The Holy Father reacted well both to the surgery and the anaesthesia. He is already awake... he has already cracked a joke," surgeon Sergio Alfieri told reporters.

The Vatican said that the pontiff is expected to remain hospitalised for several days.

<h2>Surgery ahead of tightly-scheduled August</h2>

The Pope is expected to embark on several long trips in the month of August, raising concerns about whether his recent medical complications would allow him to do so. The Pope is expected to visit Portugal in the first week of August. Later on, he will visit Mongolia at the end of the month. The Pope is also scheduled to visit the French city of Marseille in September.

Pope Francis, the 86-year-old leader of the Catholic Church, has faced numerous health challenges throughout his life.

<h2>Pope facing health complications since young age</h2>

From a lung operation in his youth to ongoing issues with his knees, the pontiff has been dealing with health issues from a young age.&nbsp;

At the age of 21, Jorge Bergoglio, now known as Pope Francis, faced a life-threatening situation when he developed pleurisy, which is an inflammation of the tissues surrounding the lung. Surgeons had to remove three pulmonary cysts and a small portion of his upper right lung, leading to a lengthy and painful recovery.

The Pope has also dealt with sciatica, a chronic nerve condition causing back, hip, and leg pain. This condition has occasionally forced him to cancel official events. The pope explained that his distinctive limp, which he compared to "walking like a broody chicken",&nbsp;is actually due to a flat foot.&nbsp;

In the past, the 86-year-old sought acupuncture treatment from a Chinese practitioner to alleviate his back pain. Additionally, he faced health issues, such as a gallbladder infection in the late 1970s or early 1980s, a heart condition in 2004, and problems with a fatty liver, which he managed by making dietary changes.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

The Vatican released a statement on Wednesday saying that Pope Francis' abdominal hernia surgery was completed without any complications. The 86-year-old pontiff was admitted to the Gemelli hospital in Rome earlier in the day.

The Vatican released a statement on Wednesday saying that Pope Francis' abdominal hernia surgery was completed without any complications. The 86-year-old pontiff was admitted to the Gemelli hospital in Rome earlier in the day. "The operation is over, it went without complications and lasted three hours," the Vatican press office said in a short statement on Telegram. All papal audiences have been called off until June 18. Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni released a statement saying that the pope was suffering from a hernia that was "causing recurrent, painful and worsening" symptoms. As per reports, the hernia was most likely caused by scars from a colon operation the Argentine pontiff underwent in the year 2021. Also read: Explained: The many health troubles faced by Pope Francis as he goes for intestinal surgery Pope Francis awake, cracking jokes after surgery Pope's surgeon at Rome's Gemelli hospital said that he is awake and cracking jokes after the abdominal operation. "The Holy Father reacted well both to the surgery and the anaesthesia. He is already awake... he has already cracked a joke," surgeon Sergio Alfieri told reporters. The Vatican said that the pontiff is expected to remain hospitalised for several days. Surgery ahead of tightly-scheduled August The Pope is expected to embark on several long trips in the month of August, raising concerns about whether his recent medical complications would allow him to do so. The Pope is expected to visit Portugal in the first week of August. Later on, he will visit Mongolia at the end of the month. The Pope is also scheduled to visit the French city of Marseille in September. Pope Francis, the 86-year-old leader of the Catholic Church, has faced numerous health challenges throughout his life. Pope facing health complications since young age From a lung operation in his youth to ongoing issues with his knees, the pontiff has been dealing with health issues from a young age. At the age of 21, Jorge Bergoglio, now known as Pope Francis, faced a life-threatening situation when he developed pleurisy, which is an inflammation of the tissues surrounding the lung. Surgeons had to remove three pulmonary cysts and a small portion of his upper right lung, leading to a lengthy and painful recovery. The Pope has also dealt with sciatica, a chronic nerve condition causing back, hip, and leg pain. This condition has occasionally forced him to cancel official events. The pope explained that his distinctive limp, which he compared to "walking like a broody chicken", is actually due to a flat foot. In the past, the 86-year-old sought acupuncture treatment from a Chinese practitioner to alleviate his back pain. Additionally, he faced health issues, such as a gallbladder infection in the late 1970s or early 1980s, a heart condition in 2004, and problems with a fatty liver, which he managed by making dietary changes. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Pope Francis' surgery completed without any complications, says Vatican

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