Ornella Muti Intends to Obtain Russian Citizenship

Italian film star Ornella Muti and her daughter, Naike Rivelli, plan to officially obtain Russian citizenship, according to RIA Novosti.

According to Rivelli, this step will help them feel at home in Russia. She emphasized that the decision is rooted in a deep respect for history and their roots.

"We are applying for Russian citizenship so we can truly feel at home. We have Russian roots, and we cannot renounce our heritage, our family, and our friends," the actress's daughter stated.

Rivelli also noted the warm attitude of many Italians toward Russian culture and its people, recalling the assistance Russians provided to Italy during the coronavirus pandemic. Additionally, the family is considering buying real estate in Moscow or Saint Petersburg so that other relatives can live there as well.

This is not the first time the actress has attempted to get a Russian passport. In early February 2022, The Taming of the Shrew star revealed that she had begun gathering the necessary paperwork, though the process was never completed at the time.

Ornella Muti’s maternal grandparents were natives of Saint Petersburg who moved to Estonia after the 1917 Revolution.

The actress has visited the country on numerous occasions to participate in creative projects and has always spoken openly about her love for her Russian roots. According to media reports, Muti already owns a three-room apartment in the capital.