Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni warned European partners against engaging in retaliatory tariffs with the United States on Tuesday and urged continued cooperation with Western allies. She emphasized the importance of maintaining strong ties with the US, dismissing the idea of the EU establishing an independent security umbrella.
Meloni, speaking in parliament before an upcoming EU leaders' summit, underscored the necessity of unity between Europe and the United States for a lasting security guarantee.
Expressing concern over the tariff disputes, she advocated for seeking negotiated solutions rather than escalating tensions. Meloni cautioned against responding to tariffs with more tariffs, citing potential inflation and economic slowdown as consequences.
Meloni raised skepticism about plans for a European peacekeeping force in Ukraine, opposing any participation by Italy. She also criticized the European Commission's "ReArm Europe" project, calling it a misleading name for strengthening defense capabilities beyond acquiring weapons.
Meloni emphasized the need for common-sense solutions between the US and Europe, driven by logic rather than instinct, as she navigates maintaining relationships with both sides amidst escalating tensions.