Maria Zakharova, the spokesperson for the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, sparked controversy with her comments regarding the collapse of the Torre dei Conti in Rome, stating that the military support provided to Ukraine by Italy contributes to the deterioration of the local economy.

Italy summoned the Russian deputy ambassador to protest against these statements, which the head of Italian diplomacy, Antonio Tajani, described as 'disturbing' and 'unacceptable'. Following the incident, a Romanian worker, Octav Stroici, died after being trapped under rubble, and prosecutors have opened an investigation for possible manslaughter. The Russian Embassy in Rome expressed condolences for his death but accused Italy of an 'aggressive campaign' against Russia. Italy continues to support Ukraine, but public opinion is divided regarding military involvement.