France has summoned Italy’s ambassador after Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini mocked President Emmanuel Macron’s plans to deploy Western troops to Ukraine. Salvini, a senior member of Italy’s far-right League party, ridiculed Macron’s call for European leaders to send military personnel to Ukraine, suggesting the French leader should personally go to the conflict zone. The comments have drawn strong criticism from France, prompting diplomatic protests and formal summons of the Italian ambassador by the French Foreign Ministry.
Salvini’s remarks came in response to Macron’s recent proposal for a ‘reassurance force’ to be deployed to Ukraine, despite strong opposition from Russia and mixed support from other EU leaders. Macron, who has repeatedly called for Western involvement in Ukraine, emphasized the need for a ‘strong army’ and ‘boots on the ground’ when the conflict ends. This has created a rift between France and other European nations, with Italy’s political stance seen as a key point of contention.
The incident has raised questions about the evolving political dynamics within the European Union, particularly regarding military involvement in Ukraine. France’s formal protests against the Italian deputy prime minister’s comments underscore the deepening tensions between European nations on this issue. Meanwhile, Moscow has consistently opposed any Western troop presence in Ukraine, warning that such a deployment could be viewed as occupation and might escalate into a third world war.