Italy opposes Stoltenberg on using Western weapons against targets in Russia

3 months ago 10

The Italian government has objected to NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg’s call for allies to lift restrictions on using Western-supplied weapons against targets in Russia.

Stoltenberg believes it is time for the allies to reconsider restrictions on the use of weapons provided to Ukraine against targets in Russia, a message that has caused anger within the Italian government, with Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini leading the charge.

“Stoltenberg should either retract his statement, apologise, or resign,” said Salvini, who has previously faced criticism for his pro-Russian stance.

“NATO cannot force us to kill in Russia, nor can anyone compel us to send Italian soldiers to fight or die in Ukraine,” according to the League (ID) leader.

“If they want to go and fight in Ukraine, let Stoltenberg, (the French President) Emmanuel Macron and all the bombers who want war go there,” Salvini said.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani was more measured, criticising Stoltenberg’s method of announcing decisions that member states had not yet taken collectively: “We are an integral part of NATO, but every decision must be made collectively.”

Defence Minister Guido Crosetto echoed this sentiment, stating that it is “wrong to increase tension” in an already “dramatic” situation.

While reaffirming support for Ukraine, Crosetto emphasised the need to “leave open the possibility of negotiating an immediate truce and initiating peace talks in the coming months.”

On Sunday, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also responded to Stoltenberg’s remarks, expressing confusion over his statement.

“I don’t understand why Stoltenberg would say such a thing,” Meloni said.

“I agree that NATO must remain firm and show no signs of weakness. There have been many questionable statements, including from Macron. I advise greater caution,” she added.

(Alessia Peretti | Euractiv.it)