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Based on facts, either observed and verified directly by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
ROME – Valery Gergiev, the world-renowned orchestra conductor with links to the Kremlin, prepares to perform at a state-backed music festival in southern Italy on 27 July despite mounting concern over his performance.
Gergiev, the Kremlin’s cultural envoy and longtime ally of Vladimir Putin, is set to perform at the “Un’estate da Re” festival at the Royal Palace of Caserta later this month.
“Art must remain free,” said Italian Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano, while warning the concert risks “sending the wrong message” amid current geopolitical tensions.
Julija Navalnaya, widow of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, called Gergiev “a promoter of Putin’s criminal policies” and urged Italians to stand firm against Russian propaganda.
Regional Governor Vincenzo De Luca, who supports the event, dismissed calls for cancellation, arguing that silencing voices “does not help peace – it only fuels hatred.”
For now, the concert remains on the programme.
(cs)
