Italy opposes Stoltenberg's use of Western weapons against targets in Russia – Euractiv

The Italian government has opposed NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg's call for allies to lift restrictions on the use of Western-supplied weapons against targets in Russia.

Stoltenberg says it is time for allies to reconsider restrictions on the use of weapons supplied to Ukraine against targets in Russia, a message that has provoked anger within the Italian government, led by the vice-president. Prime Minister Matteo Salvini.

“Stoltenberg should either withdraw his statement, apologize or resign,” said Salvini, who has previously been criticized for his pro-Russian stance.

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

“If they want to go and fight in Ukraine, let them let Stoltenberg, (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, criticizing 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. »

Defense Minister Guido Crosetto echoed the sentiment, saying it was “wrong to increase tension” in an already “dramatic” situation.

While reaffirming his support for Ukraine, Crosetto stressed the need to “leave open the possibility of negotiating an immediate truce and beginning 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 stand firm and show no signs of weakness. There have been many questionable statements, notably from Macron. I advise greater caution,” she added.

(Alessia Peretti | Euractiv.it)

Find out more with Euractiv