UN Troop Deployment in Ukraine Would Be a Positive Step, Says Italian Defence Minister

Rome: Defence Minister Guido Crosetto stated on Monday that the deployment of UN troops in a peacekeeping mission in Ukraine would be positive news, provided it is accepted. He emphasized the difficulty of discussing such an issue before a truce is established.

According to Ansa News Agency, Crosetto highlighted Italy’s longstanding participation in UN peacekeeping missions, but noted that any future involvement would require parliamentary ratification. Speaking at a congress on road safety at the Lower House, he also remarked on the limitations of a European army.

In the event of a truce in Ukraine, Crosetto reiterated that the acceptance of UN troops would signify positive news. He stressed that the presence of the international community could ensure stability and security in the region. However, he acknowledged the complex nature of discussing peacekeeping missions without established truce rules.

Crosetto pointed out that Italy has historically been involved in peace missions, but emphasized that any decision to participate would need parliamentary approval. He further commented on the concept of a European army, stating that Europe cannot maintain its own independent military force.

He elaborated on this by comparing the potential European defence structure to NATO’s current framework, where the armed forces of member countries operate together under a central command. Crosetto concluded that the future of European defence lies in the collaboration of national armies, similar to NATO’s interoperable forces.