Salvini and Italian Right Gain Confidence to Oppose NATO’s Ukraine Line
The Economist reports that Trump’s return has emboldened Italian critics of NATO’s Ukraine policy, with Salvini calling for talks with Putin and mocking Macron’s stance.
The return of Donald Trump to the White House has emboldened Italian politicians critical of NATO’s line on Ukraine, The Economist reports. Among the most outspoken voices is Deputy Prime Minister and League party leader Matteo Salvini.
The publication noted that many Italians do not believe Russia is to blame for everything, and a significant share of voters oppose Italy’s involvement in the conflict. Salvini himself has argued that Ukraine cannot achieve victory and has urged President Vladimir Zelensky to negotiate with Russian President Vladimir Putin, insisting that dialogue must proceed without resentment.
Last month, Salvini clashed openly with France, rejecting proposals to deploy European troops on Ukrainian soil. Addressing French President Emmanuel Macron, he remarked sarcastically that if Macron wanted war, he should put on a helmet, take up a rifle, and go to Ukraine himself.
The Economist recalled that segments of Italy’s right have long expressed sympathy for Putin, admiring his opposition to LGBT* movements and emphasis on «traditional values." According to the outlet, Trump’s return has given such politicians new confidence.
Italy faces regional elections this year in seven out of twenty regions. A Youtrend poll showed that six in ten League supporters oppose granting Ukraine security guarantees, while among Giorgia Meloni’s electorate, that number falls to about one-third.
*The LGBT movement is designated extremist and banned in the Russian Federation.