Stoltenberg called on allies to allow Kiev to use the supplied weapons against Russian targets. In response to criticism within his government, Prime Minister Meloni urged caution and accused as “irresponsible” those who perpetuate the alarming narrative that Europe is on the brink of widespread conflict. According to Fabrizio Coticchia, a professor of political science at the University of Genoa, the Italian government’s stance reflects “continuity with the past, which was characterized by caution and consideration of public opinion.”
Attack them at home. In an interview economistNATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg has called on allies to lift restrictions on using weapons supplied to Ukraine to attack military targets in Russia, an option requested by Ukraine that has repeatedly been blocked by NATO allies.
- This statement: The New York Times It has been reported that the US administration is considering relaxing restrictions on attacks on Russian targets on Russian territory. Reuters It was reported that Ukraine was in discussions with Western countries on the matter.
reaction. Stoltenberg’s comments have sparked a political debate, with Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Matteo Salvini voicing his opposition to the NATO Secretary-General’s position.
- “Italy is not at war with anyone and if it is right to support Ukraine militarily, it is also necessary to ban Kiev from attacking Russian military targets,” Salvini said, calling on Stoltenberg to either apologise or resign.
- Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani also commented on Stoltenberg’s remarks, urging allies, including Salvini, to take a “collective decision” on the matter and noting that military equipment sent by Italy was being used in Ukraine.
- Tajani’s comments were echoed by Defense Minister Guido Crozet, who noted that NATO’s decision-makers are member states and that a collective approach must be maintained.
Giorgia Meloni’s (ultimate) words“I believe we must be cautious, but I also believe it is right for NATO to remain resolute,” the prime minister said Sunday. “Alarming stories that Europe is on the brink of widespread conflict” are “counterproductive,” Meloni added. Those who spread this narrative are “irresponsible.”
- “Deterrence is the only solution. If we talk about diplomatic channels, it is because until now we have maintained the balance of power,” he added, evoking the Latin proverb “If you wish for peace, prepare for war.”
Comments from Professor CoticchiaAccording to Fabrizio Coticchia, a professor of political science at the University of Genoa, the Italian government’s stance is “a continuity with the past, combined with caution and consideration of public opinion.” As he explains, this means support for the demands of Ukraine and its allies (sanctions and aid, albeit limited), but with a low profile and rhetoric focused on opposition to diplomatic efforts and the risk of escalation.
- In fact, Italy recently won its ninth Military aid package for Ukraine In February, the U.S. signed a long-term security agreement with Ukraine to help strengthen the country’s defense capabilities, support its defense industry, and counter hybrid threats.
- Lorenzo Cesa, Chair of the Italian Parliamentary Delegation to the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, Sister Company The NATO chief’s proposal would rebalance ground forces, which are currently biased towards Russia.
- Chesa stressed political realism, concluding: “Italy, like all other NATO countries, must fulfill its commitments to send aid and arms through bilateral agreements. This should not only be done by Italy, but by all other countries too. Only in this way can we hope to find a solution.”
Elections and real politics. Ahead of June’s European elections, the self-proclaimed pacifist Five Star Movement, headed by former Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte, is strongly opposed to military supplies to Ukraine.
- In this context, Conte is trying to take advantage of the silence of Elie Schlein’s Democratic Party to gain opposition status, which in the European Parliament elections fielded a staunch Atlanticist, pro-Ukraine and “peace” candidate.
