De Niro's Cannes Attack on Trump: A Powerful Statement on Democracy and the Arts

Robert De Niro's Cannes Speech: A Scathing Critique of Trump and a Defense of the Arts Robert De Niro, during his acceptance speech for the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival, launched a scathing attack on US President Donald Trump. De Niro's remarks, delivered before a high-profile audience, focused on Trump's policies and their impact on American democracy and the arts. "He has cut funding and support to the arts, humanities, and education," De Niro stated, referring to Trump's administration. He further criticized Trump's proposed 100% tariff on films produced outside the US, calling it an "unacceptable attack." The actor emphasized the role of artists as a counterbalance to authoritarianism, stating that artists "represent a threat to autocrats and fascists." De Niro's outspoken criticism underscores the ongoing political tensions in the US. His comments, made on an international stage, highlight the broader implications of Trump's policies. The Cannes Film Festival provided a unique platform for De Niro to share his views, emphasizing the importance of artistic expression in a democratic society.