Berlusconi: "Putin Sent Vodka on My Birthday"... Did He Contact Russia?

Silvio Berlusconi, leader of Forza Italia (FI)
[Image source=EPA Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Jeong Hyunjin] A recording in which Silvio Berlusconi, former Prime Minister of Italy who served three terms and leader of Forza Italia (FI), claimed to have exchanged 20 bottles of vodka and letters with Russian President Vladimir Putin to celebrate his birthday has been released, sparking controversy.

On the 18th (local time), according to Bloomberg News and others, the Italian news agency LaPresse published an audio recording on its website in which former Prime Minister Berlusconi was heard making these remarks during a meeting with members of the Chamber of Deputies at the Chamber of Commerce. Although Berlusconi's birthday is September 29, foreign media reported that it is unclear when he met the lawmakers and when the recording was made.

According to the audio file released by LaPresse, former Prime Minister Berlusconi stated that he received 20 bottles of vodka and a letter from President Putin, and in response, he sent back Lambrusco wine and a reply letter.

He also said, "Russian ministers have repeatedly said that we (Italy) are supporting Ukraine with weapons and funds, and that we are at war with them (Russia)." He added, "Speaking personally, this could be a great disaster, so I cannot say much, but I am very, very, very concerned." He further stated, "I have somewhat redefined my relationship with President Putin. I know he is a peaceful and reasonable person."

Former Prime Minister Berlusconi is a leading pro-Putin figure in Italy. He has been friends with President Putin for 20 years and has even spent holidays together. Last month, in an interview with an Italian broadcaster, he claimed that "President Putin was forced by the Russian people, political parties, and ministers to invade over the Donbas situation," arguing that this left no choice but to carry out a 'special operation,' which also sparked controversy.

After the release of the recording of former Prime Minister Berlusconi's remarks on this day, Forza Italia denied reports that he had recently resumed contact with President Putin, stating that he was "telling old stories from years ago to the lawmakers." They also emphasized that Berlusconi's position on Ukraine is "the same as Europe and the United States" and "absolutely not ambiguous."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.