Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini Acquitted

rome - Italian deputy prime minister Matteo Salvini has been acquitted of charges after refusing a rescue boat carrying 147 migrants to enter Italian territory.

Italian deputy prime minister Matteo Salvini has been acquitted of charges after refusing a rescue boat carrying 147 migrants to enter Italian territory. Many politicians and supporters of the Lega party were present during the verdict. Salvini displayed his happiness by embracing his girlfriend Francesca Verdini, daughter of a politician. "After three years, Lega and Italy have won. I am happy. Defending the homeland is not a crime, but a right. I will continue even more determined than ever," said the relieved minister. "There is a judge in Palermo!" reacted Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani joyfully. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also expressed her satisfaction with the acquittal. "The verdict shows how unfounded and unrealistic the accusations against him were," said the female prime minister.

Applause erupted in parliament as well. "Justice has prevailed," commented Hungarian Prime Minister Orban.

The prosecutor had demanded six years in prison and a million-euro fine for Salvini, accusing him of depriving the 147 migrants of their freedom and failing to provide an Italian port for them in 2019. "Conscious and voluntary denial that affected the personal freedom of 147 individuals without any noticeable reason," the prosecutor claimed. However, the judge decided otherwise on Friday evening and acquitted Salvini of both charges.

The public opinion in Italy was strongly divided on the case. Salvini himself had anticipated his acquittal. He has always maintained that he has no regrets, that it was his duty to defend the Italian borders, and that he would do it again if needed.