Silvio Berlusconi, “one of the most influential men in Italy’s history” no more

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Silvio Berlusconi, “one of the most influential men in Italy’s history”, has died aged 86

He died in hospital in Milan, after being treated for a lung infection and leukaemia. His funeral will be held in Milan Cathedral on Wednesday, the diocese confirmed.He was prime minister four times – each time it seemed his political career was over, he managed to bounce back

Berlusconi was former owner of AC Milan – ex-captain Paolo Maldini has said: “Thank you for everything, president”

Berlusconi has died aged 86, after being readmitted to hospital last week. He had been suffering from chronic leukaemia, and recently had a lung infection.A state funeral will be held on Wednesday at Milan Cathedral

Current Italian Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, released a video describing him as “one of the most influential men in Italy’s history”

Russia’s President, Vladimir Putin released a statement on Berlusconi’s death, writing: “I have always sincerely admired his wisdom”

Putin said: “For me, Silvio was a dear person, a true friend. I have always sincerely admired his wisdom, his ability to make balanced, far-sighted decisions even in the most difficult situations.”

Both AC Milan, which he formerly owned, and AC Monza, who he owned until his death, have paid tributes to Berlusconi