Italy tells Rubio US troop presence in Europe essential for NATO security

Iatlian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani has told U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio that Italy considers the continued presence of American troops in Europe crucial for NATO’s security, during high-level talks in Rome aimed at easing recent transatlantic tensions.

Speaking during Rubio’s visit to Italy on May 8, Tajani emphasised the importance of cooperation between Europe and the United States amid ongoing geopolitical challenges, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media. 

“He said he told Rubio that Italy considers the presence of U.S. troops in Europe to reinforce NATO important,” Tajani said, underscoring Rome’s support for maintaining U.S. military deployment on the continent.

The comments came as Rubio concluded two days of meetings in Italy and the Vatican, part of what officials described as efforts to “mend fences” following weeks of friction between Washington and European allies over trade policy, military cooperation, and the U.S.-Israeli war in Iran.

Tajani reaffirmed Italy’s commitment to transatlantic relations and expressed hope that recent tensions had eased following Rubio’s visit.

“I believe things can go in the right direction,” he said. “I am convinced Europe needs America — Italy needs America — and the United States also needs Europe and Italy.”

During the talks, both sides also discussed the conflict involving Iran and its spillover into Lebanon, as well as developments in Venezuela and Cuba. Rubio also met Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni during the visit.

The discussions took place against a backdrop of broader disagreements between the United States and European allies, including concerns over tariffs, burden-sharing within NATO, and differing approaches to the conflict in Iran.

Tajani also reiterated Italy’s readiness to contribute to post-conflict operations in the region, including potential naval support for demining efforts in the Strait of Hormuz once a ceasefire is reached, and continued participation in the UN peacekeeping mission in Lebanon.

By Sabina Mammadli