Italy Bids Farewell to Controversial Ex-Premier Silvio Berlusconi

Italy's political, business, and soccer elite attended the state funeral of former Premier Silvio Berlusconi at Milan's Duomo cathedral, while thousands of admirers and soccer fans gathered outside. Berlusconi, who made billions as a media mogul and served as three-time premier, left a complicated legacy that was hotly debated. Milan Archbishop Mario Delpini acknowledged Berlusconi's successes and failures in his eulogy, while critics questioned whether he deserved a state funeral. Berlusconi's supporters praised his empathy and personal warmth, while his detractors cited his conflicts of interest, legal troubles, and questionable associations.