Meloni's Gift Auction Canceled Due to Criminal Investigation

An auction of gifts received by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni from foreign leaders has been canceled after the auction house, Bertolami Fine Art, became involved in a criminal investigation regarding the illegal trafficking of archaeological artifacts.

Prosecutorial authorities allege that Bertolami was used to legitimize stolen archaeological items. The auction house denies the charges.

Meloni's office stated they were unaware of the investigation at the time of the selection and terminated the collaboration once the details were revealed. The auction was estimated to generate 800,000 euros, which would have been donated to charities.

Among the gifts Meloni received were an action figure from Argentinian President Javier Milei and a diamond necklace from the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

According to Italian law, the Prime Minister is not allowed to keep gifts worth more than 300 euros.