While millions dream of obtaining the Italian citizenship, there are those who take the opposite path. Italian journalist Andrea Lucidi, a correspondent on the Ukraine conflict, requested Russian citizenship from President Vladimir Putin, motivated by alleged persecution in his home country.
According to information from the Russian news agency TASS, Lucidi, who acts as the publication’s envoy in Donbass International Reporters, and contributes to the leftist website Lighthouse of Roma, formalized his request directly to Putin.
He stated that he wants to live in Russia, which he considers his “second home”, and highlighted his ideological commitment against fascism, justifying his journalistic work in conflict regions.
"I want to live in Russia because it is my second home. My decision is a lifelong commitment to fighting injustice.” declared Lucidi, as published in the Sicily Blog.
Accusations and fear of retaliation
The journalist expressed fears about returning to Italy, where he fears being subject to sanctions and having his passport confiscated by authorities. Lucidi said that some Italian media outlets labeled him as “Kremlin agent”, insinuating that he received cryptocurrency payments for its alleged proximity to Moscow.
“I work for Italian television, just as I did in Lebanon and Syria, and now in Russia,” Lucidi replied, refuting the accusations.
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