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Italian President Sergio Mattarella issued a sharp warning Tuesday against undermining United Nations disarmament agreements, citing what he called "unacceptable allusions" to nuclear weapons use as global tensions escalate.
Speaking at a Vienna ceremony commemorating the 25th anniversary of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime, Mattarella called for reinforcing rather than dismantling international nuclear safeguards.
"It is necessary to strengthen -- not demolish -- the architecture relating to disarmament and the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons, at a time in history when, instead, we are witnessing unacceptable allusions to the use of weapons of mass destruction," the Italian news agency ANSA quoted Mattarella as saying.
The president's remarks follow recent developments that have raised concerns about nuclear proliferation. Russia announced last week it had successfully tested two nuclear-powered and nuclear-capable weapons. In response, U.S. President Donald Trump directed the State Department to resume American nuclear testing "on an equal basis" with other nations.
Mattarella emphasized the UN's continuing relevance despite its constraints, arguing the organization remains essential for maintaining global stability.
"The UN remains, even with limitations, an extraordinary, irreplaceable instrument of peace and stability, which it would be irresponsible to weaken," he said, adding that the body can only fulfill its peacekeeping mandate if member states permit it to do so.
The Italian leader also highlighted the UN's role as the primary framework for addressing transnational challenges, including those posed by artificial intelligence and global health protection.
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