Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has expressed concern over former U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to engage in a deal involving Russian diesel, cautioning that it could financially benefit Moscow and undermine Western sanctions against Russia. Speaking ahead of the European Council summit on October 15–16, Meloni described the move as risky, questioning its effectiveness in addressing the rise in fuel prices.
Meloni emphasized that the recent surge in energy costs is more closely linked to conflicts involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, rather than the ongoing war in Ukraine. She warned that allowing Russian diesel into the market could potentially generate additional revenue for Moscow, which continues military actions against Ukrainian cities. This, she argued, could weaken the efforts of Western nations to pressure Russian President Vladimir Putin into negotiations.
The Italian prime minister highlighted the uncertainties surrounding the potential benefits of the arrangement, while noting that the risks to Western diplomatic and economic pressure on Russia were more evident. Her remarks reflect growing European concerns regarding the implications of U.S. energy policy for sanctions against Russia and support for Ukraine.
In addition to her comments on the U.S. energy deal, Meloni addressed Italy’s financial priorities as the European summit approaches. She stressed that any agreement on the European Union’s long-term budget should protect Italian interests, seeking greater budget flexibility amid inflation and rising energy costs. As Italy prepares its final budget before next year’s elections, Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti has warned that increased scrutiny of Italy’s public debt could pose further financial challenges.
On the topic of defense spending, Meloni rejected the notion that increased military investment would necessarily detract from funding for healthcare and education, arguing that defense funding has its distinct purpose and is vital for national security.