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Virginia Libero anti-war speech controversy

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2026-09-17 14:19 UTC → 2026-09-20 06:53 UTC · added removed

Virginia Libero, the 28-year-old national secretary of the Giovani Democratici, has ignited political controversy following an anti-war speech at the Festa dell’Unità in Reggio Emilia. Libero criticized the diversion of public funds toward rearmament, arguing that such spending undermines social rights, healthcare, housing, and education. During her address, Libero stated, “We will not be the soldiers of your wars. If these rights-wing forces lead us to a real conflict, you go to arms. Because we will organize the deserters.” She further asserted that patriotism involves repudiating war and securing social security and dignified wages. Libero later clarified that her pacifist stance does not mean equidistance regarding the war in Ukraine, stating, “We know which side to take, on the side of Ukraine. And I condemn Putin.” The remarks have caused division within the Partito Democratico (PD). While some members, including Laura Boldrini, defended Libero as a radical voice for peace, other reformist figures have distanced themselves from her rhetoric. Libero later clarified that her pacifist stance does not mean equidistance regarding Former Italian Prime Minister Romano Prodi has joined the war in Ukraine, stating, “We know which side to take, criticism, addressing Libero’s comments on Radio24. Prodi characterized her position as an “error” that falls outside the side party’s established political framework and is inconsistent with official PD policy. While Prodi noted his own lifelong commitment to peace, he emphasized that current political circumstances necessitate specific policy choices. In a separate matter, Prodi expressed support for PD leader Elly Schlein’s recent correspondence with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, describing it as a matter of Ukraine. And I condemn Putin.” ‘common sense’ regarding national emergencies.

Versions

  1. 2026-09-20 06:53 UTC Virginia Libero anti-war speech controversy
  2. 2026-09-17 14:19 UTC Virginia Libero anti-war speech controversy

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