Switzerland plans to charge Italy for the medical costs incurred while treating Italian nationals injured in the devastating New Year’s Eve fire at the Crans‑Montana ski resort a blaze that claimed 41 lives. The move has triggered a sharp backlash in Rome, further straining relations between the two countries.
Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned the development as “disgraceful” after reports emerged that families of the victims had received invoices. Switzerland’s Federal Social Insurance Office (FSIO), however, clarified in a statement to Reuters that the bills were not intended for the families themselves.
According to the FSIO, under existing agreements between Switzerland and EU member states, victims receive an invoice only for verification, while the actual costs are charged to the relevant foreign health insurer. In Italy’s case, a spokesperson confirmed that the bill would be directed to the Italian health ministry, not to individuals.
Meloni responded forcefully on Facebook, saying Italy would “reject it outright” if Switzerland formally submitted the request. She added that she hoped the reports would “prove to be entirely unfounded,” expressing confidence that Swiss authorities would reconsider.
The Italian ambassador to Switzerland, Gian Lorenzo Cornado, told ANSA that Switzerland is seeking over 100,000 Swiss francs (about $127,000) for the treatment of four Italian nationals who spent just one day in Sion hospital following the fire.
The dispute adds a diplomatic flashpoint to an already emotional tragedy, with both governments now navigating the sensitive intersection of international agreements, healthcare costs and public outrage.
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