Meloni refuses to send Italian troops to Ukraine: Details of the situation
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni reaffirmed her country's firm and categorical rejection of the idea of sending Italian troops to Ukrainian territory during her participation in the "Coalition of the Willing" meeting hosted by Paris. This announcement preempted any speculation about Rome's direct involvement with its soldiers in the conflict, in line with the cautious policy adopted by most NATO countries to avoid direct escalation with Russia.
Details of the Italian position at the Paris meeting
An official statement from the Prime Minister's office indicated that Meloni clearly informed European allies and US envoys that Italy's support for Kyiv, while strong and ongoing, does not include deploying troops on the ground. During the meeting, which she described as "constructive and concrete," Meloni emphasized that any future security guarantees for Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire agreement must preclude the option of direct Italian military intervention.
This statement comes at a sensitive time as Western countries seek to forge a security framework that guarantees Ukraine's sovereignty and independence without dragging it into a third world war. Meloni explained that the guarantees backed by Rome would be part of a "broader set of agreements" being closely coordinated with the United States to ensure effective deterrence against any potential future Russian aggression.
International context: between military support and red lines
To understand the significance of Meloni's statements, one must consider the broader context of the conflict. Since the beginning of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Italy has provided substantial military and humanitarian aid to Kyiv, but has consistently maintained a red line regarding the deployment of troops. This stance aligns with NATO's general approach, which is committed to supporting Ukraine "with whatever is necessary," short of direct participation in combat, to avoid a potential nuclear confrontation with Moscow.
The issue of deploying Western troops had previously sparked considerable debate in European circles, particularly after earlier statements by French President Emmanuel Macron in which he did not rule out this option, leading to differing opinions across the continent. Meloni's confirmation today strengthens the position of countries that prefer logistical, intelligence, and military support to direct human involvement.
Nature of alternative security guarantees
Instead of sending troops, the Italian and American vision focuses on alternative mechanisms to guarantee Ukraine's security. According to the statement, these mechanisms include:
- Activating a comprehensive and effective ceasefire monitoring mechanism to ensure that it is not violated.
- Strengthening the defensive capabilities of the Ukrainian military forces through training and advanced armament.
- Making long-term political and economic commitments to ensure the stability of the Ukrainian state.
This trend reflects the international community's desire to find sustainable solutions that guarantee a "just peace" for Ukraine, while maintaining the cohesion of the domestic front of European countries whose people may oppose sending their sons to fight abroad.
