Italian Ex-Foreign Minister Giulio Terzi: Italy Is Unequivocally on Ukraine’s Side

Giulio Terzi di Sant’Agata, Italy’s former foreign minister and current chair of the Senate’s Committee on European Union Policies, has reaffirmed Italy’s commitment to supporting Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia. In an interview, Terzi stated that Italy remains an unequivocal supporter of Ukraine’s sovereignty and freedom.

Terzi, who previously served as Italy’s ambassador to the United States and Israel, noted that since the full-scale Russian invasion began on February 24, 2022, Italy has consistently backed European Union and NATO efforts, including the implementation of 21 sanctions packages against Russia and the cessation of Russian gas imports.

Regarding European security, Terzi argued that the European Union must develop a more credible defense pillar within NATO. He emphasized that European security relies on the mutual assistance obligations outlined in Article 42.7 of the Treaty on European Union and Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty. Terzi stated that Italy supports the development of a stronger security culture across Europe to address both conventional military threats and hybrid warfare, such as disinformation and cyberespionage.

On the subject of Ukraine’s path toward European Union membership, Terzi described the process as a merit-based alignment with European standards. He cited ongoing reforms in Ukraine’s judicial system, public administration, and anti-corruption efforts—including the work of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau—as evidence of Kyiv’s progress.

Terzi also addressed the issue of post-war reconstruction, noting that Italy has been actively involved in initiatives such as the restoration of Odesa Cathedral. He emphasized that reconstruction must be paired with genuine security guarantees, citing past international agreements like the 1994 Budapest Memorandum and the 2008 Bucharest Summit as examples of insufficient security frameworks for Ukraine.

Regarding potential peace negotiations, Terzi stated that a ceasefire requires an immediate end to Russian attacks on civilian infrastructure, including hospitals, schools, and energy facilities. He added that any future peace process must include compensation for war damages and the definitive recognition of Ukraine’s sovereignty and independence.

Terzi expressed support for the establishment of a special tribunal to address the crime of aggression against Ukraine. He noted that international efforts, including those by the International Criminal Court, are essential for holding Russian officials accountable for war crimes, including the reported deportation of Ukrainian children.

Article and image source: kyivpost.com