US warns Italy of consequences of lifting Russia sanctions
US Special Envoy for Ukraine Kurt Volker warned Italian authorities that unilaterally lifting sanctions against Russia would create problems in relations with the EU, he said in an interview with La Stampa newspaper.
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US Special Envoy for Ukraine Kurt Volker. |
"Italy will not be able to lift sanctions against Russia without serious consequences," Valker said, after reminding that sanctions against Russia "are not Italian, but European measures."
Therefore, Rome's unilateral decision on this issue will lead to serious problems in relations with the EU, the US envoy added.
The leader of Italy's League party, Matteo Salween, who after the March parliamentary elections became the center-right's candidate for the future head of Italy's government, is known for his harsh criticism of anti-Russian sanctions.
Recently, he has repeatedly stated that, if he wins the position of Italian Prime Minister, he will demand the lifting of sanctions against Russia.