Italian opposition divided over Ukraine policy and security

Internal tensions are rising within the Italian center-left coalition regarding foreign policy and the conflict in Ukraine. Giuseppe Conte, leader of the Five Star Movement, has rejected proposals for mediation involving defensive weapons for Kyiv, maintaining a hardline stance that contrasts with the positions held by Democratic Party leader Elly Schlein.

Carlo Calenda, leader of Azione, has criticized Conte’s leadership, warning that his stance could be dangerous for Italy. Calenda suggested that Russia may be prepared to launch a limited attack in Europe to demonstrate that the United States can no longer protect the continent and to exploit divisions within the European Union. He urged Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to brief opposition leaders on classified intelligence to counter what he described as pro-Russian propaganda.