Italian deputy PM mocks Macron over sending European troops to Ukraine
Photo: French President Emmanuel Macron (president.gov.ua)
Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini sharply criticized French President Emmanuel Macron, who is considering sending European troops to Ukraine, reports France Info.
France Info reports that in recent days, Salvini has sharply criticized Macron, mainly over the French president's stance on supporting Ukraine and European defense, particularly the idea of deploying Western forces to the country.
"Italian soldiers in Ukraine? Absolutely not. If Emmanuel Macron wants that, let him go there himself. Put on a helmet, grab a rifle, and go to Ukraine yourself," Salvini said.
France reacts
France Info reports that on Thursday, after Salvini's unacceptable comments, the Italian ambassador to France, Emanuele D'Alessandro, was summoned to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Paris.
A diplomatic source told the outlet that during the ambassador’s visit, she was reminded that these statements contradict the atmosphere of trust between the two countries.
The source added that such comments undermine recent bilateral events that have shown a strong alignment between the two countries, especially regarding unwavering support for Ukraine.
Western troops in Ukraine
Negotiations on ending the war have highlighted security guarantees for Ukraine as a key topic.
These guarantees are currently being developed, with the first draft expected as early as next week.
Recently, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also officially stated that security guarantees from Western partners for Ukraine will be formalized within 7–10 business days.
For more details on the security guarantees previously offered to Ukraine, new developments on the agenda, and the obstacles preventing Europe from sending troops, read RBC-Ukraine's article.
