Prosecutors have requested a six-year prison term for Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister, Matteo Salvini, over his role in the 2019 migrant vessel standoff. Salvini, then interior minister, refused to allow a ship carrying over 100 migrants to dock in Italy, leading to a 19-day standoff in the Mediterranean.
Prosecutors allege that Salvini’s actions constituted kidnapping and have asked judges to deliver a guilty verdict. The incident sparked an “extreme humanitarian emergency” on board, with desperate passengers jumping into the sea and others remaining stranded.
Salvini, leader of Italy’s right-wing League party, denies any wrongdoing and maintains his innocence. He faces prosecution for alleged kidnapping and could be barred from holding public office if convicted.
The trial continues, with Salvini’s defense team presenting its case in mid-October. A verdict is expected weeks later, potentially marking a significant turning point in Italy’s migration policy debate. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has offered her full support to Salvini, while Open Arms, the charity involved in the incident, expects justice.
