Former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi sees former German Chancellor Angela Merkel (CDU) and himself as possible mediators between Russia and Ukraine. The 85-year-old, who is in the election campaign for a seat in the House of Representatives, said on Wednesday evening in a talk show on broadcaster Rai that the conflict can only be ended with mediation.
When asked if he could act as an intermediary himself, he replied: “I think if there is one person who could act in my place or with me, it is Mrs. Angela Merkel.”
Berlusconi befriended Putin
The four-time Italian head of government, who has attracted attention not only for his political work but also for a number of scandals in recent years, is a friend of Kremlin chief Vladimir Putin. After the Russian attack on Ukraine, Berlusconi expressed his disappointment with Putin only after some hesitation and condemned Moscow’s aggression. Now he stressed that peace mediation needs someone who is “close” to Putin and who can also “intervene” with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to bring about negotiations.
Ahead of Italy’s September 25 election, some observers are concerned about Berlusconi’s friendship with Putin and coalition partner Lega’s party leader Matteo Salvini’s connections to Russia. There are fears that a likely election victory for the center-right bloc could weaken Italy’s consistent stance against Russia. Under Prime Minister Mario Draghi, the country was one of the most energetic advocates for sanctions.
Right-wing politicians also in Italy against sanctions
Salvini has been speaking openly against further sanctions and arms transfers for some time now. Berlusconi also claimed in the TV show that Western sanctions did not harm Putin and that he was perfectly capable of fighting back.
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
