Italian opposition leaders criticize government's cautious foreign policy

Former EU commissioner Paolo Gentiloni said Italy is “too cautious” on foreign affairs, noting the country’s absence from the recent Balkan summit and its limited role in EU discussions. He warned that such isolation could diminish Italy’s influence in Europe and warned of political costs at home.

M5S leader Giuseppe Conte echoed criticism, pointing to divisions within the centre‑right on foreign policy and urging a diplomatic turn on the war in Ukraine. Conte highlighted Italy’s exclusion from recent European summits and called for a negotiated solution rather than continued military escalation.