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Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Tuesday reaffirmed her country's commitment to NATO while rejecting proposals for an independent European defense system, telling parliament that such a structure would create unnecessary duplication.
Speaking before lawmakers, Meloni advocated for strengthening European cooperation within the existing NATO framework rather than establishing a separate defense apparatus.
"I want a European pillar of NATO, but I think that a European defense parallel to NATO would be a mistake. It would be a useless duplication," Meloni said during her parliamentary address.
The Italian leader's comments come amid ongoing debates across Europe about the continent's defense capabilities and its relationship with the United States-led alliance. Meloni emphasized that NATO "remains the backbone of European defense" while supporting enhanced coordination between European member states.
Addressing criticism directed at U.S. President Donald Trump regarding global instability, Meloni pushed back against attributing current international tensions to recent American leadership decisions.
"It seems like simplifications to me. It is true that there is a situation of growing chaos, but it did not start today," she said, suggesting that current global challenges have deeper roots than Trump's presidency.
The prime minister also touched on Middle Eastern developments, expressing cautious optimism about the ceasefire between Israel and Iran. Despite acknowledging the delicate nature of the situation, Meloni indicated hope for sustained peace efforts.
"The situation is still very complex but we are still confident that we can move forward with the truce and that we can eventually return to negotiations," she added.
Italy's stance reflects broader European discussions about defense autonomy and transatlantic relations as NATO allies navigate shifting geopolitical dynamics.
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