Italy’s double blow to Ukraine: Meloni rejects troop deployment, adds to Zelensky’s concerns

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has strongly objected to the deployment of European soldiers in Ukraine, countering proposals made by France and Great Britain. In comments on the issue, Meloni said, "You can go—but not with my soldiers," strongly rejecting sending Italian troops to Ukraine. The news was published by Italian media on Monday.

Meloni joined a top-level summit in London on Sunday, which was graced by the presence of more than 12 European leaders and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. The summit sought to finalize a peace proposal for Ukraine after weeks of hot diplomatic talks. Meloni held one-on-one talks with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the event to confirm Italy's solidarity with the sovereignty and security of Ukraine.

Commitment to justice and stability

The Italian Prime Minister reaffirmed her nation's strong support for Ukraine and its citizens at the summit. Her office issued a statement reiterating Italy's commitment to cooperate with European and Western partners, including the United States, towards a just and lasting peace. "Our objective is to guarantee Ukraine's future sovereignty, security, and freedom," the statement stated.

Conditions for European mission

As reported by prominent Italian newspaper La Repubblica, Meloni made it clear that Italy would take part in a European operation in Ukraine only if it took place under the auspices of the United Nations and after the establishment of a ceasefire. The position reflects her emphasis on international cooperation and diplomacy as opposed to acting unilaterally.

Response to Zelensky's Washington failed negotiations

Meloni also spoke on Ukrainian President Zelensky's failed talks with former US President Donald Trump in Washington that ended in fiasco. She regretted that such incidents had to be converted into partisan issues or perceived from biased perspectives by leaders.