The meeting lasted about an hour. Expected. Highly anticipated. Protagonists, Mario Draghi and Matteo Salvini. The main topic, the war in Ukraine.
In a note, Palazzo Chigi announces that “the conversation focused on the recent visit to the United States, during which Italy’s commitment to peace was reaffirmed through support for Ukraine, the imposition of sanctions to Russia, the renewed request for a ceasefire and the start of credible negotiations ”.
“We have finally talked about peace and a ceasefire”, the first comment of the Northern League leader, who added: “Nobody will win the war, if he only comes out with negotiations”. “Sending economic and military aid to Ukraine was initially right and we voted with conviction”, explained Salvini. “Now further arms shipments I don’t think are the right solution. If the war goes on in Italy too, there will be a “job massacre”.
During the meeting, the government’s note continues, “the economic and humanitarian consequences of the ongoing conflict were also discussed, with particular reference to the need to prevent a large-scale food crisis and to continue along the path of welcoming Ukrainian refugees. On the energy front, the importance of a path that combines diversification of supply sources and investments in renewables was shared ». “The embargo of gas and oil hurts Italy and Europe more than Russia,” added Salvini.
The Northern League leader also commented on the postponement of the Dl Ukraine in the Chamber, where the quorum was missing twice. “It is not my fault, if I am from Draghi I can hardly follow the proceedings of the Chamber.” On the alleged absence of Northern League deputies, Salvini limited himself to replying: “Were the others all present?” The vote was postponed to tomorrow morning’s session, Tuesday 17, at 10.