Leoni's Attack on 'Generals of Discord' Exposes Rift in Italy's Center-Right

Rome, Italy – May 31, 2025. A significant rift has emerged within Italy's ruling center-right coalition following comments made by Simone Leoni, the newly appointed youth coordinator for Forza Italia. During a recent political event in Rome, Leoni sharply criticized those he labeled "generals of discord," a thinly veiled reference to the controversial General Roberto Vannacci and his recent book. Leoni's remarks included strong condemnations of views suggesting the separation of disabled children, the exclusion of Black people from Italian identity, and the denigration of gay people. "These people should be ashamed," Leoni stated, "For every one of these aberrant statements, there are people suffering, even taking their own lives." This direct attack has drawn immediate ire from the Lega party, a key member of the coalition, highlighting growing tensions within the government. The incident underscores the fragility of the ruling alliance and raises questions about its long-term stability. The video of Leoni's speech has quickly gone viral, generating considerable debate and discussion about the future of the Italian political landscape.