Tributes Flow for Berlusconi in Death, Even from Critics

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Silvio Berlusconi, a figure both adored and scorned during his lifetime, continues to draw tributes even in his death. Critics and admirers, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and Pope Francis, have offered their condolences and heartfelt praise.

News of Berlusconi’s passing in a Milan hospital, where he was receiving treatment for chronic leukemia, prompted an outpouring of reactions from around the world. National leaders, Pope Francis, and even television presenters who worked for one of his networks shed tears for the populist three-time prime minister and media mogul.

Here are some of the notable reactions:

• Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a condolence telegram, hailed Berlusconi as a “patriarch” of Italian politics and a true patriot who enhanced Italy’s global standing. Putin expressed sincere admiration for Berlusconi’s wisdom, balanced decision-making, vitality, optimism, and sense of humor. The two leaders had visited each other’s residences, and Putin had gifted vodka to Berlusconi on his last birthday.

• Giorgia Meloni, the far-right Italian Premier, bid farewell to Berlusconi in a video statement aired on Italian television. As a coalition partner with Berlusconi’s Forza Italia party, Meloni described him as a great European political leader and a transformative figure in Italy who fought for genuine liberty.

• Pope Francis, in a condolence telegram to Berlusconi’s eldest daughter, Marina Berlusconi, expressed his closeness to the entire family and acknowledged the late premier’s energetic temperament in carrying out public responsibilities. The Pope prayed for eternal peace for Berlusconi and offered heartfelt condolences and prayers for those mourning his passing.

• Anders Fogh Rasmussen, former Danish prime minister and former NATO secretary-general, shared his thoughts on Berlusconi, acknowledging their political differences but praising him as charming and engaging company on a personal level.

• Italian President Sergio Mattarella, whose role as head of state Berlusconi had aspired to, described the former premier as a protagonist of Italian politics for an extended period. Mattarella recognized Berlusconi as a great political leader who left an indelible mark on the history, values, customs, and language of the Italian Republic.

• During a live morning talk show on one of Berlusconi’s private TV networks, the hosts became emotional and shed tears while delivering the news of his death. Outside one of Berlusconi’s villas in Arcore, near Milan, a scarf from AC Milan soccer club, which Berlusconi had long owned, was placed alongside flower bouquets as a tribute.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Berlusconi’s legacy

More about Berlusconi’s legacy

• Silvio Berlusconi – Wikipedia page providing detailed information about Silvio Berlusconi, his political career, and his influence in Italian politics.
• Vladimir Putin – Wikipedia page offering insights into Russian President Vladimir Putin, his relationship with Silvio Berlusconi, and their political interactions.
• Pope Francis – Wikipedia page providing information about Pope Francis, his condolences for Silvio Berlusconi’s death, and their relationship.
• Giorgia Meloni – Wikipedia page featuring details about Giorgia Meloni, the far-right Italian Premier who bid farewell to Berlusconi, and her political affiliation with Forza Italia.
• Italian Politics – Wikipedia page giving an overview of Italian politics, including the impact of Silvio Berlusconi and his Forza Italia party.