Brussels – Giuseppe Conte, leader of Italy's 5 Star Movement, has publicly criticized the European Union's military strategy regarding the Ukraine conflict, stating that it has resulted in Russia possessing greater negotiating power than before its initial aggression.

Speaking outside the European Parliament, Conte firmly expressed opposition to both rearmament in Europe and what he termed a 'warmongering strategy' that relies on military victory over Russia, referring to it as a 'failed bet.'

Conte was accompanied by eight members of the European Parliament from the 5 Star Movement and an assembly of youth representatives from the party.

He directed his remarks towards the governments of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and former Prime Minister Mario Draghi, arguing that they should have pursued diplomatic avenues for a 'negotiating breakthrough' that aligns with the traditional values of the Italian populace.

Stating that 'after three years of falsehoods,' the collective strategy of the EU, which Italy has espoused, is ineffective, Conte emphasized that a negotiated solution to the conflict is the only feasible path forward.

He expressed that had there been earlier acknowledgment of this need in capitals such as Washington and London, many lives could have been saved, and the level of destruction minimized.

As discussions continue regarding a potential summit between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Istanbul, Conte asserted that negotiation is imperative, stating that dialogue can occur even without face-to-face meetings.

He cautioned against making definitive judgments based on individual actions or statements in the diplomatic arena.

Conte raised concerns regarding European rearmament plans, warning that shifting industrial focus from civilian goods to military production would lead to a future where increased weaponry necessitates their eventual use.

He highlighted the implications of producing military assets, suggesting that it would perpetuate a cycle of conflict.

In addition to his remarks on defense policy, Conte also addressed upcoming referendums scheduled for June 8–9, advocating for support on labor rights and citizenship reforms.

He highlighted four key issues related to labor that would enhance protections for Italian workers facing low wages and inadequate wage laws.

On the citizenship reform, which seeks to shorten the residency requirement for non-EU foreigners from ten years to five, Conte indicated that while he supports the question, he believes a more robust strategy, Ius Scholae, should also be prioritized.

He criticized the government for discouraging voter participation in the referendums, labeling the approach as 'very irresponsible.'