Italian PM Meloni Expresses Doubts on European Troop Deployment to Ukraine
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Synopsis
Italian PM Giorgia Meloni is highly skeptical about sending EU troops to Ukraine, opposing proposals from Britain and France, while emphasizing unity among Western nations in the face of ongoing conflict.
Key Takeaways
- Meloni expresses skepticism about European troop deployment.
- Meeting in London focused on a peace plan for Ukraine.
- Italy's support for Ukraine reaffirmed in discussions.
- Participation in missions contingent on UN oversight.
- Unity among Western allies is essential for future relations.
Rome, Mar 3 (NationPress) Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni remains highly skeptical regarding the proposal to send European troops to Ukraine, as reported by Italian media on Monday. She does not endorse the corresponding initiative put forth by Great Britain and France.
On Sunday, Meloni participated in a Leaders' Summit in London, attended by over a dozen European heads of state and the Canadian Prime Minister, aimed at discussing a peace plan for Ukraine, following a week of intense diplomatic negotiations.
The Italian PM engaged in bilateral discussions with the UK Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
A statement from the Italian PM's office following her meeting with Zelensky affirmed Italy's support for Ukraine and its people, alongside a commitment to collaborate with European and Western partners and the United States to foster a just and lasting peace that ensures a future of sovereignty, security, and freedom for Ukraine.
According to leading Italian newspaper La Repubblica, Meloni indicated that Rome would only consider participating in such a joint European mission in Ukraine if it operates under the auspices of the United Nations and on the condition that hostilities cease.
Reflecting on the unsuccessful negotiations involving Zelensky in Washington, which concluded with a conflict with US President Donald Trump, Meloni expressed regret over the incident in the Oval Office but emphasized that it should not escalate into divisive fanfare by taking sides.
During the discussions, Meloni also highlighted the necessity of unity among Western nations, proposing to host a summit between European leaders and the US to enhance relations, especially in light of the tension arising from the war in Ukraine.
