Senate President Ignazio La Russa says Italy must become central Mediterranean power amid European war

Ignazio La Russa, president of the Italian Senate, said Europe has “woken up to war” and argued that Italy should reclaim its historic Mediterranean vocation. He noted that after World II Italy strengthened its role in Central Europe, but recent events require a new focus on the Mediterranean, citing the “Piano Mattei” as an example.

La Russa also addressed tensions between U.S. President Donald Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, stating he dislikes Trump’s style and stressing Italy’s demand for equal dignity in bilateral relations. He added that he would not pursue the presidency of the Republic, preferring to remain Senate president.