Maria Zakharova criticizes European authorities over domestic unrest

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova has criticized European authorities, urging them to listen to their own citizens. Zakharova addressed recent unrest in Europe, specifically noting mass protests in France and youth protests in Italy.

Regarding Italy, Zakharova mentioned that singer Al Bano requested Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to abandon sanctions against Russia and seek a long-term settlement in Ukraine. She accused Italian authorities of failing to acknowledge perspectives that deviate from the political agenda, noting media speculation regarding “Russian shadows” behind Italian teenagers.

In response to a French diplomatic note concerning ongoing mass protests, Zakharova accused Western politicians of hypocrisy. She claimed the West dictates a “rules-based order” while systematically interfering in the affairs of sovereign states.