Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has expressed strong scepticism regarding a proposal from France and the U.K. to deploy European troops to Ukraine.
Speaking to Rai1 TV, Meloni stated that Italy had reservations about the feasibility and effectiveness of the plan, and she confirmed that Italy would not be sending its troops to Ukraine.
Sustainable Peace
Despite these concerns, Meloni underscored the shared goal among European nations — achieving a stable and enduring peace for Ukraine.
She emphasised that discussions should focus on building a peace framework that includes necessary security guarantees for Kyiv.
Meloni also weighed in on the recent public dispute involving US President Donald Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and U.S. Vice President JD Vance.
She noted that such discussions are typically not conducted in the public eye, hinting at the unusual nature of the situation.
London Summit
Her remarks came after a high-level summit in London, where European leaders convened to discuss security and ongoing support for Ukraine.
The meeting aimed to strengthen coordination among allies and develop a collective approach to the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Ahead of another European leaders’ summit, Meloni warned of the dangers of division within the West.
During talks at Downing Street with U.K. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, she stressed the importance of maintaining unity, stating, “It is crucial that the West remains united.”
Meloni also suggested a meeting between US and European leaders to reinforce transatlantic cooperation.
Meloni-Zelenskyy Meeting
On March 2, Meloni met with Zelenskyy to discuss a strategic approach to ending the war. Zelenskyy reiterated that Ukraine seeks peace backed by strong security commitments, emphasising that only Russia would benefit from prolonging the conflict.
At the London summit, Starmer announced that European leaders had agreed to draft a peace plan for Ukraine to present to the United States. He urged decisive action, arguing that this was a moment for leadership rather than extended discussions.
The meeting followed a tense exchange between Zelenskyy and Trump in Washington, sparking concerns over the stability of US support for Ukraine.
Europe Seeks US Backing
European leaders stressed the necessity of securing Washington’s backing, with Starmer highlighting Europe’s responsibility in the effort while underlining the need for US involvement.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called for increased defence spending to bolster Europe’s deterrence capabilities, warning that the continent must be prepared against potential threats.
Discussions also considered the possibility of a European peacekeeping role, with support from the US in intelligence, air defence, and deterrence against further Russian aggression.
French President Emmanuel Macron previously proposed a temporary ceasefire limited to air and sea operations, leaving ground combat untouched.
He also suggested that European troops could be deployed as part of a broader peace deal, though details remain uncertain.
Amid tensions with Trump, White House national security adviser Mike Waltz criticised Zelenskyy, stating that the US requires a leader committed to securing a lasting peace with Russia.
Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov accused European leaders of prolonging the war by reinforcing Zelenskyy’s position through potential peacekeeping deployments.
‘Clear Support’
Despite these complexities, European leaders reaffirmed their commitment to Ukraine. Zelenskyy, departing from London, declared that Europe had provided “clear support” for Ukraine’s cause.
Starmer positioned himself as a key mediator between Europe and the US, ensuring that Kyiv remains central to any future negotiations.
