Meloni-Gov't Opposes Direct Military Intervention In Ukraine By NATO

Delivering an addressto the Italian Senate ahead of the 21022 March EUCO summit, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni says that her gov't opposes direct military intervention in Ukraine by NATO troops. Says that sending ground troops would trigger an escalation to be avoided 'at any cost'. Regarding boosting EU and Italian defence spending, Meloni states that "Spending on defence means investing in our autonomy from the United States and defending our national interests. It is the path that Europe must follow."

• On the Russian presidential election, Meloni says "We reiterate our condemnation of the sham elections on Ukrainian territory. Navalny's sacrifice will not be forgotten."
• On the Israel-Hamas war: We oppose an Israeli ground assault in Rafah. Adds that "It is a priority to launch concrete initiatives for the Two-State solution in the Middle East."
• On the operation to counter Houthi rebels attacking shipping in the Red Sea: "Thanks to the crew of the ship Duilio, these days it is defending itself from several attacks by the Houthis in the Red Sea." Caio Duilioshot down a Houthi drone in early March.
• On Iran: “Iran supports Hamas, Hezbollah and the Houthis and supplies drones for Russia to use in Ukraine.”