Swiss Canton of Valais announced a €10.8 million aid fund to support victims and families of the December 31 bar fire in the ski resort Crans‑Montana that killed 40 people. The fund will be administered by a newly created foundation and will cover funeral costs and repatriation of foreign remains. The fire, caused by negligence, has drawn international attention as the owner, Jacques Moretti, was released on bail after being arrested for negligent homicide. Italy has formally protested the release, with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani directing the Italian ambassador to express strong indignation to Swiss prosecutor Beatrice Pilloud. Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis has confirmed diplomatic discussions with Rome, while Swiss officials maintain that the decision was made by the courts. The incident has highlighted cross‑border legal and diplomatic tensions over the tragedy.

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