Italian politician Fabrizio Cicchitto recounted an unusual story involving Silvio Berlusconi and Vladimir Putin during their friendship in the early 2000s. According to Cicchitto, Putin invited Berlusconi for a hunting trip, during which the Russian leader directed the Italian prime minister to aim at two deer and shoot them.
Although Berlusconi had never touched a rifle before, he felt anxious when given one by Putin in the woods. Despite this, he managed to shoot and kill the two deer. However, this left him somewhat annoyed as he had never been a hunter before.
Following the hunt, Putin promised Berlusconi an extraordinary meal and proceeded to cut open a deer’s heart, taking it out and handing it to Berlusconi. The Russian leader claimed that it would be an exceptional meal. This episode stunned the former Italian prime minister, who was uncomfortable with the idea of eating an animal’s heart.
This story highlights the unique dynamics of the friendship between Berlusconi and Putin, offering insight into their personal lives and experiences together. It showcases how even influential political leaders can find themselves in unexpected situations when they travel together or engage in activities outside their usual routines.