[VIDEO] Dušan Smodej breaks the silence: I sympathize with the Left, Luka Mesec uses cocaine
The article reports on an exclusive interview with Dušan Smodej, a former star of leftist 'cultural' circles and main actor in the photobooth scene, who has now spoken out publicly about his knowledge of Luka Mesec's cocaine use. Smodej confirms that Mesec uses cocaine and claims he personally witnessed him taking the drug. He also states that Asta Vrečko asked him to pretend they didn’t know each other. Smodej explains that he was previously pressured to remain silent, allegedly by Mesec himself, but decided to speak out after experiencing stress within the Left. He emphasizes that while he does not accuse Mesec of wrongdoing, he believes the situation highlights internal tensions within the group. The article notes that Smodej denies any wrongdoing or inappropriate relationships at his parties, though he acknowledges heavy alcohol and drug use occurred.
Luka Mesec, a candidate for mayor of Ljubljana and coordinator of the Left party, has denied allegations made by artist Dušan Smodej that he uses cocaine. Smodej claimed he personally saw Mesec using the drug at a New Year's party in late 2021. He further stated that Mesec had previously been known among his circle to use cocaine, though this information was kept private out of respect for Mesec. Smodej’s claims were published in an interview with the Info360 portal on September 18, 2026. Mesec responded to the allegations by accusing Smodej of launching them as part of a broader campaign against him ahead of the upcoming mayoral elections in Ljubljana. In a statement given during a parliamentary session, Mesec said he had been warned before deciding to run for mayor that the election would be dirty, involving all possible disqualifications and discredit campaigns. He argued that the interest in undermining him was too great because he comes from the only political party without scandals. Mesec also criticized Smodej for changing his previous statements. Earlier, during an appearance on the Tarča show in 2022, Smodej had said he did not socialize with Mesec and that they had never used drugs together. Mesec questioned why Smodej would now alter these statements, suggesting it could be due to financial difficulties, pending legal proceedings, or pressure from right-wing authorities. Smodej faces charges related to the Fotopub case, which involves allegations of sexual assault, enabling the use of prohibited substances, and causing physical harm. These charges have been under investigation for four years. During the interview, Smodej claimed he and Mesec used cocaine together at a party in late 2021, adding that he himself had taken the same drug at that time. Mesec reiterated that he was present at the Fotopub exhibition and that there exists a photograph of him at the event, which has been published multiple times. He dismissed everything else as fantasies and planned lies. He described the transformation of Slovenian politics into a swamp of false accusations, insinuations, and disqualifications, noting how repeated falsehoods can become accepted as truth. Mesec expressed confidence that people recognize the transparent propaganda behind Smodej’s claims and that he will not allow false accusations to undermine him. He vowed to face the mayoral election with dignity and resolve. The Left party noted that this is not the first attempt to discredit Smodej. Previously, journalist Mitja Čander had encouraged Smodej to participate in an interview conducted by Nejc Krevs just before the Fotopub scandal broke, with Asta Vrečko, then minister of culture, as a participant. Another instance occurred at the last Venice Biennale, where Smodej appeared at a restaurant with representatives of the Slovenian pavilion on a prearranged lunch. The Info360 portal, which published Smodej’s interview, was labeled as a tool of wealthy right-wing propagandist Aleš Štrancar. This characterization highlights the perceived ideological divide between the parties involved in the dispute. Mesec declined to comment further on the allegations after his parliamentary statement. His response underscores the growing tension around the mayoral race in Ljubljana, with both sides accusing each other of political maneuvering and smear tactics.
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The article reports on allegations made by Dušan Smodej against Luka Mesec, claiming that Mesec used cocaine during a New Year's event in 2021. Smodej asserts he personally witnessed Mesec taking cocaine and describes the incident as part of a broader pattern of misconduct. Mesec denies the accusations, calling them politically motivated and part of an attempt to discredit him ahead of municipal elections. He accuses Smodej and others of spreading false information and claims that Slovenian politics has become increasingly reliant on fabricated allegations. The article highlights the tension between the two figures, with Mesec positioning himself as a victim of smear campaigns while Smodej presents his claims as credible evidence.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the allegations against Luka Mesec as politically motivated smear campaigns, emphasizing the influence of 'right-wing' figures like Janez Janša and Igor Stevanović. It portrays Mesec as a victim of misinformation and political manipulation, suggesting a left-leaning perspective. S
Why factuality (90): This article closely follows the primary source document, reporting Smodej’s claims about Mesec using cocaine and his personal observations. It includes details about past events and Smodej’s current stance. It does not significantly alter facts but presents them in a way that supports Smodej’s pers
Why objectivity (60): The article is biased toward Smodej’s version of events, portraying Mesec as a political adversary and emphasizing the controversy around Mesec’s alleged drug use without giving equal weight to Mesec’s defense.
Artist Dušan Smodej, a central figure in the Fotopub scandal, has publicly accused Luka Mesec, a Left Party MP, of cocaine use during their time together at parties organized by Smodej and the late Roman Uranjek. In an interview with Info360, Smodej admitted he previously denied knowing Mesec but now claims they were close friends, with Mesec attending multiple of his events. He stated that both he and Mesec used cocaine together, though he denies any involvement in illegal activities or sexual misconduct at these gatherings. Smodej also claimed that some accounts of the events were distorted, emphasizing that the parties were more about socializing among artists and cultural figures rather than explicit content. He further alleged that other notable Slovenians, including Miha Kordiš, Jaša Jenull, and Petra Aršič, had serious issues with cocaine.
Bias read (Progressive): The article focuses on a high-profile political figure (Luka Mesec, a Left Party MP) and includes allegations involving drug use and personal conduct, which are politically sensitive topics. The framing emphasizes the accusations against a leftist politician, potentially highlighting negative traits
Why factuality (88): The article accurately reflects Smodej’s claims about Mesec and his past silence, aligning with the primary source. It provides context about his decision to speak out and his denial of criminal responsibility. It also mentions his interactions with Mesec and others at events.
Why objectivity (62): While factual, the article leans toward Smodej’s perspective, especially when discussing his past silence and current willingness to speak out. It doesn’t present Mesec’s counterarguments equally, maintaining a somewhat sympathetic tone toward Smodej.
The article reports on an exclusive interview with Dušan Smodej, a former leftist cultural figure and actor, who reveals his knowledge of Luka Mesec’s cocaine use and Asta Vrečko’s involvement in covering it up. Smodej confirms that he has seen Mesec take cocaine and was instructed by Mesec himself to remain silent. He explains that his silence was intended to support the Left, which he sympathizes with, but he now feels betrayed when assistance did not materialize. Smodej denies any wrongdoing or inappropriate behavior at his gatherings, though he acknowledges heavy alcohol and marijuana use occurred.
Bias read (Conservative): The article frames Smodej’s revelations as a betrayal of the Left, implying that the party failed to support him despite his loyalty. The emphasis on Mesec’s alleged drug use and the portrayal of the Left as secretive and self-serving leans right. The narrative suggests that the Left prioritized its
Why factuality (86): The article accurately reports Smodej’s claims about Mesec and his past silence, aligning with the primary source. It includes specific details about his interactions and the nature of the allegations. However, it cuts off mid-sentence, potentially affecting completeness.
Why objectivity (55): The article shows clear bias toward Smodej, framing his accusations as credible and his silence as justified. It fails to provide a balanced view of Mesec’s position, focusing primarily on Smodej’s narrative.
The article reports on an exclusive interview with Dušan Smodej, a former star of leftist 'cultural' circles and main actor in the photobooth scene, who has now spoken out publicly about his knowledge of Luka Mesec's cocaine use. Smodej confirms that Mesec uses cocaine and claims he personally witnessed him taking the drug. He also states that Asta Vrečko asked him to pretend they didn’t know each other. Smodej explains that he was previously pressured to remain silent, allegedly by Mesec himself, but decided to speak out after experiencing stress within the Left. He emphasizes that while he does not accuse Mesec of wrongdoing, he believes the situation highlights internal tensions within the group. The article notes that Smodej denies any wrongdoing or inappropriate relationships at his parties, though he acknowledges heavy alcohol and drug use occurred.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the revelation about Luka Mesec’s cocaine use through the lens of Smodej’s ideological alignment with the Left. While the content itself is about personal behavior, the emphasis on Smodej’s ‘simpatiziranje z Levico’ (sympathy for the Left) and the portrayal of Mesec as a figure of
Why factuality (85): The article accurately reports the content of the exclusive interview with Dušan Smodej from Info360, including his claims about Luka Mesec using cocaine and his decision to speak out after years of silence. It also mentions the legal proceedings against Smodej and his denial of criminal responsibil
Why objectivity (65): The tone is sensationalized with phrases like 'senzacionalno' and emphasizes Smodej’s accusations without presenting Mesec’s rebuttal. The article frames Smodej as a victim and Mesec as a political opponent, showing bias towards Smodej’s narrative.
Luko Mesec, sokoordinator Levice in kandidat za župana Ljubljane, je odzvil na intervju z Dušanom Smodejem, ki ga v aferi Fotopub obtožuje spolnega nasilja. Smodej je v intervjuu za portal Info360 trdil, da je skupaj z Mesecom užival kokain na novoletni zabavi pred petimi leti. Mesec je te obtožbe pripisal kampanji pred županskimi volitvami v Ljubljani, ki je po njegovih besedah umazana in vključuje diskreditacijo kandidatov. Mesec je poudaril, da je bil v Fotopubu le na razstavi in da so druge izjave Smodeja laži. Poleg tega je kritiziral slovensko politiko za pretvorbo v močvirje lažnih obtožb in diskvalifikacij.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the situation through the lens of Mesec, a left-wing politician, who accuses Smodej of making false claims during a politically charged campaign period. The narrative emphasizes the alleged corruption within the right-wing media and political structures, suggesting systemic bias.
Why factuality (75): The article reports on Smodej's claim that he and Mesc used cocaine together, citing an interview with Smodej where he accuses Mesc of using cocaine. It also mentions Smodej's public statement about not allowing false accusations to affect his nerves. The article aligns with the cross-source consens
Why objectivity (60): The tone leans towards Smodej's perspective, presenting his allegations as credible while portraying Mesc's response as defensive and politically motivated. There is some editorializing in the framing of the conflict between Smodej and Mesc.
Dušan Smodej, slovenski umetnik in eden glavnih akterjev afere Fotopub, je v intervjuju za portal Info360 dejal, da je videl Luku Mesceta vzeti kokain na določenem večeru, kljub temu pa zanika, da bi imel spolne odnose z njim. Smodej priznava moralno odgovornost, a ne kazensko, glede tega, da je v ljubljanski kulturni in levi sceni pogosto videl stvari, ki jih je racionaliziral. Luka Mescen se je ostro odzval na obtožbe, jih označil za lažne in politične diskreditacije, kar je povezano z ljubljanskimi županskimi volitvami. Mescen meni, da so obtožbe del strategije za diskreditacijo njegovega kandidata in da za njim stojita politični lideri Janez Janša in Zoran Stevanović.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the allegations against Luka Mescen as politically motivated, linking them to his candidacy in municipal elections and implicating right-wing figures like Janez Janša. The narrative suggests a deliberate smear campaign by left-leaning forces, which aligns with a left-leaning slant
Why factuality (70): This article provides details from Smodej's interview where he states that Mesc uses cocaine and describes a specific incident where he saw Mesc take drugs. It includes quotes from Smodej and a journalist explaining why Smodej initially denied knowing Mesc. While it presents both sides, the emphasis
Why objectivity (55): The article appears to favor Smodej's account, especially when describing the alleged incidents involving Mesc. There is a noticeable focus on Smodej's personal experience and moral stance, which may influence the reader's perception of the events.
The article discusses the controversy surrounding Dušan Smodej, who has been accused of being a 'paid agent of the right' by the Left Bloc. Despite these allegations, Smodej claims he has video evidence, which could potentially prevent Luka Mesec, a coordinator of the Left Bloc and candidate for mayor of Ljubljana, from filing a lawsuit. The piece frames the situation as part of internal factional battles within the Left Bloc, suggesting that the affair benefits certain groups ahead of upcoming local elections. It highlights the potential fallout for Mesec, who is seen as a key figure for the Left Bloc’s leadership in future parliamentary elections.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the conflict as part of internal factional struggles within the Left Bloc, implying that Smodej's actions are politically motivated and aimed at benefiting specific factions ahead of elections. The emphasis on Mesec's potential downfall and the suggestion that Smodej's actions are
Why factuality (65): The article references events related to the Info360 podcast but does not provide specific details about the content of any particular episode. It mentions names like Luka Mesec, Klemen Boštjančič, and others, but these are not directly tied to the primary source documents, which focus on interviews
Why objectivity (50): The tone of the article is biased and opinionated, using phrases like 'ulična prevarantka' (street-level fraudster) and making assumptions about political figures without providing balanced analysis. It also includes personal commentary and speculative statements rather than presenting facts objecti
Luka Mesec, sokoordinator levice in kandidat za župana Ljubljane, je obtožil svojega nekdanjega kolege, Dušana Smodeja, da je skupaj z njim užival kokain. Smodej, ki je v aferi Fotopub obtožen zaradi spolnega nasilja, je podvržen sodni postopki. Mesec je v svojem izjavi kritiziral trenutno vlado, predlagajoč, da Smodej spreminja svoje izjave zaradi finansijskih težav, prihodnjega sodnega procesa ali možnih dogovorov z desničarsko oblastjo.
Bias read (Progressive): The article presents a critique of the current government by a left-wing candidate, implying that the government might be influencing or pressuring individuals involved in legal issues. The framing emphasizes potential government involvement and criticism of the ruling authorities, which aligns with
Why factuality (65): This article accurately reports Smodej’s claims about Mesec using cocaine and provides some context about his past statements. It aligns with the primary source but does not delve deeply into the broader implications or political motivations involved.
Why objectivity (50): While more objective than others, the article still leans slightly toward Mesec’s perspective, especially when discussing the potential political consequences of Smodej’s claims. It avoids overtly emotional language but remains somewhat biased.
Luka Mesec, prvak Levice, je odzval na obtožbe umetnika Dušana Smodeja, da bi užival kokain, kar oporekne kot lažno obtožbo v okviru umazane županske kampanje v Ljubljani. Mesec meni, da Smodej spremeni svoje izjave o tem, da se nikoli ni družil s prvakom Levice in da niso uživala drog, kar je bilo resnično. Umetnik Smodej, ki je v aferi Fotopub obtožen za spolno nasilje, omogočanje uživanja prepovedanih drog in telesne poškodbe, je v pogovoru za portal Info360 obtožil Mesca. Mesec tvrdi, da je bil v Fotopubu le na razstavi in da so ostale izjave fantazije in laži. Nastavil je, da se slovenska politika spreminja v močvirje lažnih obtožb in da gre za organizirano poskus diskreditacije. Pričakuje, da bo tekma za županski stolček umazana, ker je sam od vstopa politiko že 12 let trn v peti, predvsem pa je trn v peti najbolj umazanim delom desne oblasti.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the controversy around Luka Mesec's campaign against accusations made by artist Dušan Smodej. The narrative emphasizes Mesec's defense against false allegations, portraying Smodej's claims as politically motivated and part of a broader smear campaign. The tone suggests skepticism,
Why factuality (60): This article repeats many of the same claims as the first, including Mesec's accusations against Smodej and his reference to past statements by Smodej. It provides some additional context about Smodej's legal issues but does not independently verify the claims. The article leans on Mesec's narrative
Why objectivity (50): The article maintains a similar biased tone as the first, focusing on Mesec's perspective and implying that Smodej's recent statements are inconsistent or influenced by external pressures. Emotional language such as 'umazana županska kampanja' reinforces the partisan stance.
This exclusive interview with artist Dušan Smodej reveals his decision to speak out after four years of silence. He discusses why he denied knowing Luka Mesec, the current coordinator of the Left Party, during a TV show four years ago. Smodej claims that Mesec uses cocaine and that he was pressured to remain silent about this. He also mentions meetings with former Culture Minister Asta Vrečko and suggests there were connections between these gatherings and the Ministry of Culture. The interview explores Smodej’s reasons for staying quiet and his recent choice to break his silence.
Bias read (Progressive): The article focuses on allegations involving a high-ranking Left Party official using drugs and the pressure on Smodej to stay silent, which frames the narrative around internal Left Party dynamics and potential misconduct by a prominent figure. This aligns with a left-leaning perspective by implici
Why factuality (60): The article accurately reflects the conflict between Smodej and Mesec, referencing the primary source material. It acknowledges both parties’ positions but does not fully explore the nuances or provide additional context beyond what is presented in the podcast.
Why objectivity (45): The tone is somewhat adversarial, focusing on the political implications rather than the factual details. It uses phrases like 'umazane volitve' (dirty elections) which suggest a bias toward Mesec’s viewpoint.
Luka Mesec, sookurator stranke Levice, opozoril je na namerene obtožbe in diskvalifikacije, ki jih nasprotujoca stranka poskuša uporabiti proti njemu kot kandidatu za ljubljanskežupana. Mesec meni, da gre za laži in načrtno diskreditacijo, kar je povezano z obtožbo Dušana Smodeja, da bi imel težave z drogo in da bi se v preteklosti družil z njim. Stranka Levice ocenjuje, da Smodej uporablja platformo, da se opraviči, kljub temu, da je sodni proces proti njemu v teku. Stranka navaja, da so bile podobne obtožbe pred tem, in da gre za poskus podtikanja. Tudi drugi dogodki, kot je Smodejov pojav na Beneškem bienalu skupaj z predstavnikom stranke, so bili interpretirani kot znaki zlorabe.
Bias read (Conservative): Artikel opisuje obtožbe kot 'laži' in 'insinuacije', kar pomeni, da je znotraj političnega konteksta. Poudarek je na smisli, da gre za zlorabo informacij in politično manipulacijo, kar je tipično za desničarsko perspektivo. Obtožbe so opisane kot namerno zlorabe, kar pomeni, da je artikel zaviral le
Why factuality (55): The article presents Luka Mesec's allegations against Dušan Smodej as part of a broader political campaign, citing multiple sources including his own statements and those from his party. While it includes direct quotes from Mesec, it lacks independent verification of the claims made about Smodej's d
Why objectivity (45): The tone is clearly critical of Smodej and supportive of Mesec, using emotionally charged language like 'umazane volitve' (dirty elections) and suggesting Smodej may be under pressure from right-wing authorities. This shows a clear bias towards Mesec's position.
The article discusses local elections in Maribor, Slovenia, focusing on Bor Greiner's candidacy for mayor. It highlights his confidence in winning the election and mentions the broader context of local political campaigns. The piece includes a poll asking whether Luka Mesec, a politician, should resign due to allegations involving Dušan Smodej, who claimed to have used cocaine. The poll presents various opinions, ranging from calls for immediate resignation to views that the issue is irrelevant to the upcoming local elections.
Bias read (Center): The article provides a balanced presentation of the situation, including multiple perspectives on the controversy surrounding Dušan Smodej and the poll results showing varied public opinion. There is no clear ideological framing or biased language.
Why factuality (55): This article repeats the claim that Smodej accused Mesec of using cocaine, while also citing Mesec’s denial. It lacks direct sourcing from the primary source and presents both sides without sufficient contextualization or verification against the original podcast content.
Why objectivity (40): The article has a partisan tone, leaning toward supporting Mesec’s position. It frames Smodej’s allegations as politically motivated and includes opinionated language such as 'pritožbe' (obnoxious complaints) and 'umazane volitve' (dirty elections).
Luka Mesec, leader of the Left Party, has accused artist Dušan Smodej of falsely claiming he uses cocaine, linking this to alleged corruption in the mayoral race in Ljubljana. Mesec claims Smodej previously made truthful statements about him but now contradicts them, possibly due to financial pressure or collusion with right-wing authorities. Smodej, who faces charges related to the Fotopub case involving sexual assault and drug use, allegedly accused Mesec of cocaine use during an interview with Info360. Mesec insists he was only at a photo exhibition at Fotopub and denies any wrongdoing, calling the accusations fantasies and lies. He criticizes Slovenian politics for becoming a swamp of false allegations and insinuations, particularly targeting the right-wing parties and their media networks.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the situation through the perspective of Luka Mesec, a prominent leftist politician, who accuses his opponent of spreading false information and conspiracy theories. The narrative emphasizes Mesec’s stance against right-wing influence and portrays the accusations against him as a诬
Why factuality (55): This article repeats the core claims from earlier sources without adding new information or verifying them against the primary source. It lacks depth and clarity in distinguishing between verified facts and speculative claims.
Why objectivity (40): The article maintains a strong bias in favor of Mesec, using emotive language and implying that Smodej’s accusations are politically motivated. It does not present alternative viewpoints or challenge the narrative effectively.
Luka Mesec, sokoordinator Levice, je odzval na obtožbe umetnika Dušana Smodeja, ki ga je obtožil uživanja kokaina. Mesec je poudaril, da Smodej v preteklosti ni rekel istih stvari in da so bile njegove izjave izpred nekaj let resnične. Mesec je poudaril, da se je pred kandidature za župana Ljubljane zavedal, da bodo poskušali diskreditirati njegovo kandidature z različnimi metodami. Smodej je bil vključen v afero Fotopub, kjer je bil obtožen spolnega nasilja, omogočanja uživanja prepovedanih drog in telesnih poškodb. Mesec je poudaril, da je bil na razstavi v Fotopubu in da so druge izjave Smodeja laži. Mesec je ocenil, da se slovenska politika spreminja v močvirje lažnih obtožb.
Bias read (Progressive): The article presents Luka Mesec, a leftist politician, defending himself against accusations by Dušan Smodej, who is associated with a different political background. The framing emphasizes Mesec’s claims of being targeted by false accusations and his criticism of the right-wing political landscape,
Why factuality (50): The article summarizes a conversation between Mesec and Smodej but fails to clearly distinguish between facts and opinions. It references the primary source indirectly but does not provide full transparency about the nature of the claims made by Smodej or Mesec.
Why objectivity (35): The article is highly subjective, presenting Mesec’s response as justified and Smodej’s claims as baseless. It uses emotionally charged language and implies a political motive behind Smodej’s accusations without evidence.
Info360IndependentProgressiveFactual: no official source document/info detectedObjective 45
On September 18, 2026, Info360 published an exclusive interview with artist Dušan Smodej, in which he stated he would no longer remain silent. In a half-hour interview, Smodej revealed why he denied knowing Luka Mesc in a previous show hosted by Tarča four years ago, described events at parties organized by him and late Roman Uranić, and identified prominent politicians with drug issues. The interview also included information about who Smodej accused of lying during the conversation.
Bias read (Progressive): The interview focuses on allegations against prominent politicians regarding drug use, which is a politically sensitive issue. The framing emphasizes the personal accountability of these figures and suggests a critique of their behavior, aligning more closely with left-leaning perspectives that tend
Why factuality: no official source document/info detected
Why objectivity (45): The tone is confrontational and biased towards Luka Mesec, suggesting Smodej’s accusations are part of a political campaign. Emotional language like 'laži' (lies) and 'umazane volitve' (dirty elections) indicates a lack of neutrality.
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