In an interview, Jacques Tilly, known for his satirical floats at the Düsseldorf Carnival, reflects on his defiance in the face of Russian legal proceedings aimed at him. He articulates his belief that satire, a critical element of freedom of expression, is resilient and cannot be silenced, despite the current transnational oppressive actions against it. Tilly emphasizes the importance of 'Narrenfreiheit' or fools' freedom, which he considers essential for liberty and democracy.

Tilly recounts his initial fears about the repercussions of his work and the unexpected solidarity he received from supporters in Cologne. He draws parallels between current events and the 2015 attack on Charlie Hebdo, stating that both instances represent a broader assault on free speech and artistic expression. His acknowledgment of the vibrant support he has continued to receive reinforces his resolve to create provocative and critical satirical representations of world leaders.

This year, Tilly has crafted three critical floats depicting Russian President Vladimir Putin, including one that portrays him as consuming Europe along with former US President Donald Trump. He aims to convey political messages through his art, reaffirming that satire remains a powerful tool against repression, and he is committed to using it to challenge authoritarianism and celebrate the freedom of expression.