Speeches

I think I was very clear. President Meloni has made it very clear that we must support Ukraine by sending weapons exclusively on a defensive basis.

Mr President, ladies and gentlemen, the conflict in Ukraine is a crucial challenge not only for the country affected by Russian aggression, but for the entire European and global geopolitical order. Our support as the European Union cannot be seen as a discretionary choice, but as a collective responsibility dictated by the defence of the founding principles of our Union: democracy, sovereignty and respect for international law. During the recent meeting with President Zelensky at the Ambrosetti Forum in Cernobbio, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni reiterated a position that I fully share: We must not give up. This message is not only a statement of intent, but a strategic stance that recognizes how much Ukraine's fate is inextricably linked to the security of the whole of Europe. President Meloni said that Italy's support for Ukraine is not only a matter of solidarity, but also of national interest. The defence of Ukraine is equivalent to the defence of the rule of law and European stability. Allowing Russia today to use its military dominance to subdue a sovereign nation would set a dangerous precedent, undermining the security of all free nations. President Zelensky, at the bilateral meeting in Cernobbio, renewed the request for more military assistance, especially in view of the difficult winter that awaits his country. Italy’s clearly expressed response was firm: There will be no surrender of our commitment. Then, by virtue of all this, I declare that, in my opinion, it is our duty to continue to support Ukraine by providing all the necessary aid to ensure the...