Italian Trucker Protests Over Fuel Prices Disrupt Highways and Airports

Trucker protests over rising fuel prices have caused severe disruptions across Italy, including highway closures, fuel shortages at airports, and empty supermarket shelves, prompting government officials to condemn the blockades as illegal. The protests have closed a section of the A1 highway in Campania, left airports in Crotone and Reggio Calabria without jet fuel, and halted mozzarella production. Deputy Transport Minister Edoardo Rixi announced funds have been released and a decree is forthcoming, while urging demonstrators to disband, citing concerns over organized crime infiltration. Industry groups warn of economic collapse, with the Vittoria produce market halted and supermarkets in the South at risk of closure. Farmers in Trani and truckers in Palermo plan to continue protesting until October 27, when a new meeting with Transport Minister Matteo Salvini is scheduled.