Putin’s 2003 gift to Italy a reminder of different time and relations between Russia and Europe

Rome: A statue gifted by Vladimir Putin to an Italian city stands as a controversial reminder of past relations between Moscow and the West. This Saint Nicholas statue is situated in Bari, near a plaque with Putin’s signature.

The statue was donated in 2003, long before significant events like the 2014 annexation of Crimea and the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, which severely deteriorated relations between Russia and the West.

The G7 summit, held nearby, aims to funnel significant funds to Ukraine in response to the invasion.

“May this statue bear witness not only to the great veneration of the great saint by Russians, but also to the constant aspiration of the people of our countries to consolidate their friendship and cooperation,” reads the plaque signed by Putin.

Located outside the Basilica of Saint Nicholas, the statue is a popular site for Orthodox Christians on pilgrimage.

Since the invasion of Ukraine, this gift from Putin has sparked controversy in Bari. A petition to remove the plaque signed by Putin has garnered 18,000 signatures.

However, there has been no serious discussion about removing the Saint Nicholas statue itself, which holds a special place in the hearts of Bari residents.