Pro-Russian billboards appear across Italy this summer

This summer, hundreds of pro-Russian posters have emerged on billboards across various cities in Italy, including Rome, Verona, Modena, and Pisa. The posters feature the slogan 'Russia is not our enemy' alongside imagery of a handshake in the colors of the Italian and Russian flags. Some posters also express opposition to military funding for Ukraine and Israel, advocating for peace instead. The campaign is organized by Sovranita Popolare, a group formed in response to Italy's Covid-19 lockdowns. The Italian government, led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, officially supports military aid to Ukraine, aligning with European Union resolutions. However, there is a notable divide within the ruling coalition, with some members expressing pro-Russian sentiments. This includes figures like Matteo Salvini and the late Silvio Berlusconi, who had a well-documented friendship with Vladimir Putin. The Ukrainian embassy in Rome has voiced concerns over the proliferation of these posters, labeling them as Russian propaganda aimed at rehabilitating the image of an aggressor state. They have urged local authorities to reconsider permits for such displays. The mayor's office in Rome has reacted by ordering the removal of the posters, particularly those that misuse the city's name and symbol. Despite the controversy, public reaction in Italy has been relatively muted, partly due to the timing of the campaign during the summer vacation period. Many comments on social media emphasize the importance of free speech, suggesting that censorship should not be imposed on the expression of opinions, even if they are controversial.