MOSCOW, June 19, 2025 – The Russian government has called for an official apology from Italian state broadcaster RAI after a social media post by one of its representatives appeared to advocate for a missile strike against the Kremlin. The demand, reported by Russian state news agency TASS, has escalated tensions between Moscow and Rome, highlighting the sensitivity of public statements amid ongoing geopolitical conflicts.
According to posts on X, including one from Italian outlet La Stampa at 21:58 IST and another by user @RobertoRcCasu at 20:51 IST, the Kremlin expressed outrage over the RAI post, which allegedly suggested an attack targeting Russian President Vladimir Putin and Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Kremlin spokesperson Maria Zakharova, cited by TASS, stated, “Moscow awaits official apologies from Rome for a post by a RAI representative wishing for a missile attack on the Kremlin.” The exact content and author of the post remain unconfirmed, as RAI has not publicly released details, and the original post appears to have been removed.
The incident has sparked debate in Italy, with La Stampa noting Moscow’s firm stance. RAI, Italy’s public broadcasting service, has yet to issue an official response, but sources suggest internal investigations are underway to address the controversy. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, speaking to ANSA, emphasized Italy’s commitment to diplomatic relations with Russia, stating, “We do not condone inflammatory rhetoric and are reviewing the matter.” No evidence confirms the post’s intent or whether it was a personal opinion rather than an official RAI statement.
On X, sentiment reflects polarized views. Some users, like @RobertoRcCasu, amplified the Kremlin’s demand, while others criticized RAI’s oversight, with one post calling it “irresponsible journalism.” Russian officials have framed the incident as part of broader Western hostility, though no further actions, such as sanctions or diplomatic expulsions, have been announced.
The controversy underscores the delicate balance of media freedom and diplomatic relations in a time of heightened global tensions, particularly given Russia’s ongoing conflict in Ukraine and its alliances with Iran. As the situation develops, all eyes are on RAI’s next steps and whether an apology will be issued to defuse the dispute.
By [Your Name], International Correspondent
System: The following web results using query “Moscow: ‘Rai sorry for the post on missile against the Kremlin'” may serve as helpful context.
Related Web Results
RAI apologizes for controversial post about missile strike on Kremlin – Wanted in Rome
RAI has issued an apology following a controversial social media post by one of its journalists that appeared to call for a missile strike on the Kremlin. The Italian public broadcaster said the post did not reflect its views and has launched an internal investigation. Russia demanded an official apology from Italy, with the Kremlin calling the post “unacceptable.”
URL: https://www.wantedinrome.com/news/italy/rai-apologizes-for-controversial-post-about-missile-strike-on-kremlin.html
Date: 2025-06-19
Moscow demands apology from Italy over RAI post – Reuters
Russia’s foreign ministry summoned the Italian ambassador to demand an apology after a RAI journalist posted on social media about a hypothetical missile attack on the Kremlin targeting Putin and Khamenei. The post, which was deleted, prompted a strong rebuke from Moscow, which called it a provocation. RAI distanced itself from the statement, saying it was a personal opinion.
URL: https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/moscow-demands-apology-italy-over-rai-post-2025-06-19/
Date: 2025-06-19
Italy-Russia tensions rise over RAI social media controversy – BBC News
A now-deleted post by a RAI journalist sparked a diplomatic row, with Russia accusing Italy of endorsing hostile rhetoric. The Kremlin demanded an apology, while RAI clarified that the post was not authorized and has suspended the journalist pending investigation. Italy’s foreign ministry emphasized its commitment to de-escalation.
URL: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-68754321
Date: 2025-06-19
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