Donald Trump Jr. faces allegations of illegal hunting of rare ducks in Italy

In December 2024, Donald Trump Jr. reportedly participated in a duck hunting expedition in the wetlands near Venice, Italy. The area is part of the Valle Pierimpie, which borders the Venice Lagoon and is a designated Natura 2000 conservation zone. Italian lawmaker Andrea Zanoni of the Europa Verde party cited a video from the hunting trip that allegedly shows Trump Jr. alongside a dead ruddy shelduck, a protected species under both European Union and Italian wildlife laws. The killing or possession of such wildlife is regarded as illegal in the region. Following the release of the video, which was made available on the Field Ethos website, there has been significant public outcry. Zanoni filed a parliamentary question aimed at initiating an investigation into the incident. He and fellow lawmaker Luana Zanella also urged both regional and national authorities to take decisive action regarding the hunting party's activities and the potential breach of environmental laws. They highlighted the importance of adhering to wildlife protection laws in Italy, especially concerning rare and endangered species. The response from the Trump camp was immediate, with spokesman Andy Surabian asserting that the hunting party had obtained the necessary permits and was operating within legal guidelines. He emphasized that Trump Jr. is serious about following rules and regulations regarding conservation and would cooperate fully with any inquiries. Despite the assertion of legality, the controversy surrounding the footage and the alleged actions of the hunting group has raised questions about ethical hunting practices and the accountability of individuals engaged in such activities. As the investigation unfolds, it remains to be seen what actions, if any, regional authorities in Italy will take. Environment Minister Gilberto Pichetto Fratin indicated that he was waiting for a formal report regarding the claims after being made aware of the situation through news outlets. This incident could potentially have broader implications, not just for Trump Jr. personally but also for hunting regulations and wildlife conservation efforts within Europe. The combined nature of the allegations and the high profile of those involved has ensured significant media coverage and public scrutiny.