Turin, Italy – Extinction Rebellion blocked the Aerospace and Defence Meeting on December 3, 2025, halting the international convention on aerospace and defense.

About 30 people chained themselves to gates and poles at the Oval Lingotto, while three others climbed a structure behind the Regional Government building. The movement denounced the involvement of attending companies in global conflicts and accused both the Government and the Region of supporting a sector they say causes deaths and accelerates climate collapse.

Protesters entered the courtyard shortly before the event opened, displaying banners reading “Defend the Earth, not the borders” and blocking access to the convention. Moments later, three activists scaled a building behind the Region tower and hung a large banner stating “Here war and climate crisis are financed,” a replica of the one seized by police in 2023 and later returned after cases were dismissed.

“We block once again the most important Italian fair of the weapons sector, where partnerships are made and agreements are signed among companies whose investments and profits lead to loss of human lives and destruction of territories,” said Pietro of Extinction Rebellion. He called the convention “immoral,” citing government and regional support despite constitutional values.

Activists pointed to rising military spending—up about 30% over the last decade—and a budget plan that proposes an additional increase of roughly 10 billion euros. Pietro noted that companies such as Leonardo, Thales, and Avio are among the major arms manufacturers profiting from worsening global crises, with Italy’s top 15 weapons producers doubling profits between 2021 and 2024.

“Investing in armaments and supporting events like this means condemning entire populations to death, endangering the survival of humanity, the Earth, and all living species,” said Rachele, who was suspended from the building. She cited the link between military activity and ecological collapse, referencing global emissions from armed forces and long-term environmental damage in conflict zones.

Rachele added that current choices will shape future generations, urging an end to militarization and a shift toward peace, climate justice, and social justice.

keywords

Podcast: Play in new window | Download