Italy's Tajani calls for UN mandate before deploying troops
The Deputy Prime Minister of Italy, Antonio Tajani, expressed skepticism about sending European soldiers to Ukraine without a UN mandate. He emphasized that a neutral zone should be managed by neutral countries.
Antonio Tajani, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Italy, voiced his doubts about deploying European soldiers to Ukraine during an interview with Canale 5. He stressed that such actions would not be the best solution.
If a neutral zone is to be created, there must be Italian soldiers under a UN mandate – not Nato, the European Union or the West in general, whom Russia would perceive as enemies, said Tajani.
Tajani noted that the neutral zone between Russia and Ukraine should be overseen by neutral countries. Italian soldiers could participate in such a mission only with a UN mandate, which would require the approval of the Security Council, including China and Russia. The Deputy Prime Minister compared this to the presence of the Italian contingent in Lebanon.
The Italian politician emphasized that the European Union must be involved in discussions with Russia, the USA, and Ukraine, especially in light of the sanctions imposed on Moscow.
There is no peace without the Europeans. Let us use the leverage of sanctions — stated Tajani, adding that U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio shares this opinion.
Spending on armaments and Europe's security
Tajani expressed the need to increase Italian spending on armaments to at least 2% of GDP, emphasizing that the USA will not abandon Europe's defence. The Biden administration expects greater European involvement in defence, which the Italian politician considered appropriate.
When asked about Russia's potential threat, Tajani said Europe must ensure its security. He added that Ukraine, being in the European Union, will be protected. The Deputy Prime Minister stressed that Americans must not stop paying attention to this part of the world.
In his speech, Antonio Tajani highlighted the importance of international cooperation and the UN's role in ensuring peace in Ukraine. His remarks indicate the need for a balanced approach to security in Europe.
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