Support for Kyiv Unchanged, No Troops to Be Sent: Meloni

Rome: Premier Giorgia Meloni stated Wednesday that Italy’s support for Kyiv in its conflict against Russian forces remains steadfast, while emphasizing that Rome will not deploy troops to Ukraine. “Our position on Ukraine has not changed and it cannot change when faced with the civilian victims and the images of the houses systematically bombed by the Russians on a civilian population that has been resisting for four years now,” Meloni addressed the Senate as she reported to parliament ahead of this week’s EU summit.

According to Ansa News Agency, Meloni affirmed Italy’s committed support to the Ukrainian people with the primary goal of achieving peace. She mentioned a recent phone conversation with Ukrainian President Zelensky, where she reiterated this stance. “Let me again clearly reiterate the government’s position,” she continued. “Each nation will contribute to the efforts of the Willing for Kiev, but Italy has already clarified that it does not plan to send soldiers to Ukrainian territory.”

Furthermore, Meloni expressed caution regarding the utilization of seized Russian assets to aid Kyiv. She noted that the upcoming EU summit will discuss the matter of Russian frozen assets, stressing the importance of adhering to international law, protecting financial stability, and ensuring that any measures taken are sustainable.