Scandal between France and Italy over sending European troops to Ukraine

A new diplomatic scandal has erupted between France and Italy following recent statements by Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini addressed to French President Emmanuel Macron. As a result, Paris summoned the Italian ambassador, Emanuele D’Alessandro, for further clarification.

Salvini has been criticizing the French plan for the possible deployment of European troops to Ukraine for the past few months. His latest ironic remark was particularly sharp: “Go alone. Put on a cap, a vest – and march to Ukraine.” At the Elysee Palace, these words were considered “unacceptable” and unacceptable for maintaining an atmosphere of trust between the countries.

The situation was complicated because Salvini’s criticism coincided with a visit to Washington by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. During this visit, she, together with Macron, demonstrated support for diplomatic efforts in Ukraine. This left it with a problematic choice: distance itself from its coalition partner, which could lead to internal conflicts, or keep quiet, which could damage relations with France.

France tried through diplomatic channels to find out whether Salvini was representing the government’s position, but decided to summon the Italian ambassador without a response. Paris reportedly recalled that such comments undermine long-standing cooperation and trust between the countries.

This is not the first time Salvini has criticized Macron. He has previously called the French president “crazy,” “hypocrite,” and even “a gentleman addicted to champagne.” This time, his words have once again created tensions that could lead to a severe crisis in relations between Rome and Paris.