Italy stands by Ukraine without waging war on Russia, says minister

Italy has pledged that it will not engage in military conflict with Russia, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Antonio Tajani told the Italian newspaper Il Giornale.

“We are not at war and we will never go to war against Russia, but peace is not just the absence of war; it is a guarantee that people can make decisions freely,” Tajani said, emphasizing the distinction between avoiding conflict and ensuring democratic sovereignty.

On the topic of Ukraine, Tajani suggested that providing Kyiv with security guarantees akin to NATO’s Article 5—without granting full membership in the alliance—represents a viable path forward. “This is a path supported by many,” he added, signaling Italy’s backing for measures that strengthen Ukraine’s security while avoiding direct military escalation with Russia.

In his initial remarks, Tajani also emphasized that Italy remains a steadfast ally of Ukraine and intends to play “a leading role” in supporting the country should it secure a peace agreement with Russia, while clarifying that it will not commit ground forces to deter any potential future invasion.

“We have always said that we would not contribute troops on the ground, but that we would continue to help Ukraine, as we have always done, through military, financial and political means,” Tajani emphasized.

“We are not at war with Russia and we do not believe it is right to send Italian troops there,” Tajani continued.

Italy will however “play a leading role” in Ukraine should it achieve a peace deal with Russia, Tajani vowed.

“This is because we will be among the countries that will guarantee the country’s security through a system – an Italian proposal – based on Article 5 of NATO’s charter,” Tajani went on.

By Vafa Guliyeva