Activists Climb Chimney in Turin and Paint “Life Not War,” Face Court Case

Leonardo has taken legal action against four Extinction Rebellion activists after they climbed a disused chimney in March 2025 and painted the words “Life Not War” on the structure.

The protest took place at an industrial site in the Corso Marche complex, where the activists reached an abandoned chimney and created the large painted message. The action is now the subject of a legal case.

The company is accusing the activists of property damage under Article 639 of the penal code. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for June 22 at the Turin court, where judges will decide whether to proceed with a full trial.

The removal of the painted message, ordered shortly after the incident, reportedly cost around 10,000 euros.

Extinction Rebellion stated that the protest was intended to draw attention to issues linked to arms production, military exports, and public spending priorities. The group said the action highlighted calls for investment in life rather than war.

The movement also referenced broader concerns about rising military spending, European defense initiatives, and global increases in defense budgets, alongside reduced focus on ecological transition and social investment.

Leonardo’s Turin operations are part of a wider aerospace and defense industrial base in the city, where expansion projects are underway, including plans for a major innovation district in the Corso Marche area.

Extinction Rebellion said its position remains unchanged and that it will continue to support calls for action on these issues despite the legal proceedings.