Rome: Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto stated that Rome's priority is to provide Ukraine with robust security guarantees within a NATO-style framework, emphasizing that such a deterrence mechanism is 'the most credible' method to ensure peace without escalating the conflict.

According to Anadolu Agency, Crosetto highlighted in an interview with La Repubblica, following a recent summit in the US capital, that Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's proposal for an Article 5-type guarantee is gaining momentum among allies. He elaborated on the plan, which aims to extend NATO's defensive umbrella to Ukraine without necessitating full membership, thereby ensuring comprehensive air, naval, and ground protection.

Crosetto reiterated that deterrence is foundational to peace, explaining that the knowledge of an unwinnable conflict serves as a powerful deterrent against aggression. He also firmly dismissed the idea that Ukraine should concede any part of the Donbass region in a potential peace agreement, arguing that doing so would compromise Ukraine's future defense capabilities.

Addressing Russia's military constraints, Crosetto commented on Moscow's realization that conquering the entire Donbass would require massive military efforts and human sacrifices, deeming it an unrealistic goal. He further critiqued the suggestion of deploying European troops as part of a 'volunteer' coalition, asserting that Italy does not view this as a viable solution.

Crosetto concluded by reaffirming Italy's alignment with Meloni's approach, stating that security guarantees for Ukraine must be prioritized while avoiding actions that could be perceived as provocative by Russia.