Meloni on Relations with the US: If We Disagree, We Must Say So

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has articulated her stance on the country's relationship with the United States, emphasizing that European nations will not benefit from severing ties with American allies. However, she stressed that Italy must defend its national interests, even if it means expressing disagreement with Washington.

In a comment to the Italian broadcaster RAI, Meloni responded to a journalist's question regarding criticism from the US directed at its allies, particularly in the context of an incident that occurred at the Italian Sigonella Air Base. This week, Italy made the decision to deny American bombers involved in operations in Iran access to this base.

While Meloni refrained from commenting on the specific incident, she underscored that Europe should not sever its ties with the United States. She stated, "I still believe that, at a geopolitical level, Europe does not have, shall we say, much to gain from breaking with the US, but our job is primarily to protect our national interests, and when we disagree, we must say so, and this time we disagree."

It is noteworthy that Italy clarified why the US request for the use of the Sigonella base was rejected. The reason was that it involved the landing of bombers, which is not provided for under the bilateral agreement between the countries. According to this agreement, such permission must first be approved by the Italian Parliament.

Furthermore, it is important to mention that Spain has also taken an active stance against the use of its military bases for American strikes on Iran. Since the onset of the US and Israeli operations against Iran, Spain has not allowed its joint military bases to be used for this purpose. In response to such actions, then-President Donald Trump threatened to completely halt trade with Spain.

Thus, Meloni's position reflects the complex situation in international relations, where European countries are trying to find a balance between traditional partnerships with the US and the protection of their national interests. This issue remains relevant in light of the contemporary geopolitical challenges facing European states.

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