Italy signals readiness for key postwar role in Ukraine’s reconstruction, demining efforts

Italy is preparing to take on a more direct and substantial role in Ukraine’s postwar recovery by offering critical technical and military support—though not through the deployment of combat troops. Instead, the Meloni government is positioning itself to contribute to essential reconstruction operations once Russia’s full-scale invasion is halted.

Unlike London and Paris, Rome has no intention of deploying soldiers as “peacekeepers,” but it aims to provide strategic assets in several high-impact areas, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

The objective is to reinforce coordination with allies and establish Italy as a reliable and credible partner in securing a just and lasting peace in Ukraine, particularly in the aftermath of the recent Trump-Putin meeting,

The Italian government is preparing a multifaceted plan. Mine clearance will be a key focus, with Army and Navy specialists potentially leading demining efforts across up to 30% of Ukraine’s land—an area contaminated by an estimated 2 million landmines and unexploded ordnance. The operation could involve up to 5,000 personnel and take years to complete.

Naval deployments are also under consideration, with the possibility of sending minehunters and auxiliary frigates to the Black Sea—reviving proposals first floated under Mario Draghi’s government in 2022. The Italian Air Force could play a role in airspace monitoring, while intelligence operatives may support on-the-ground security cooperation.

Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani reaffirmed Rome’s commitment during remarks at the Meeting of Rimini, a prominent political forum: “We are not in favour of sending troops, but we could make an important contribution given the extensive experience we have in both maritime and land demining.” Tajani also emphasized the need for a unified Western strategy, echoing Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s stance during a recent summit with Donald Trump and European leaders in Washington.

Rome’s message is clear: it seeks to prevent the conflict from freezing into a long-term standoff while asserting its role in European security and Ukraine’s recovery. Following its leadership in hosting the Ukraine Recovery Conference in July, Italy is stepping forward to solidify its strategic weight as a postwar stabiliser.

By Vafa Guliyeva