“You Can Go—Not With My Soldiers.” Italy’s Prime Minister Meloni Rejects Troop Deployment To Ukraine.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has firmly rejected proposals from France and the United Kingdom to deploy Italian troops to Ukraine as part of EU peacekeeping initiative, citing concerns over the effectiveness and feasibility of such a move. In a series of public appearances and interviews, Meloni made her stance clear, delivering a resolute message: “You can go—not with my soldiers.”

The decision, which has sparked widespread discussion, underscores Italy’s cautious approach to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Meloni expressed doubts about the practicality of sending troops, highlighting potential risks and the need for a unified European strategy. Her comments have been seen as a significant moment in the debate over NATO’s role and European unity in addressing the situation in Ukraine.
The Italian leader’s rejection of the proposals from Paris and London comes amid heightened tensions and differing opinions among European nations on how best to support Ukraine while avoiding direct military escalation. Meloni’s position has raised questions about the cohesion of NATO strategy and the broader implications for European solidarity.
While Italy remains committed to supporting Ukraine through humanitarian aid, economic measures, and diplomatic efforts, Meloni’s refusal to commit troops signals a preference for non-military solutions. This stance has been met with mixed reactions, with some praising her for prioritising national interests and others expressing concern about potential divisions within the alliance.
As the conflict in Ukraine continues to evolve, Meloni’s decisive words—“You can go—not with my soldiers”—are likely to resonate across European capitals, shaping discussions on the continent’s future approach to the crisis.