Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has warned that Russia represents a broader threat to the European Union’s security beyond defense, suggesting Moscow could exploit issues such as illegal migration to destabilize the bloc.
Meloni’s Warning on Russia
Speaking at a press conference following a summit in Lapland with EU and NATO leaders, Meloni stated, “The threat is much larger than we might assume.” She emphasized that the risks posed by Russia and other actors to EU security would persist even after the conflict in Ukraine ends.
Meloni highlighted how Russia could influence public opinion, manipulate raw materials, and instrumentalize migration, urging the EU to adopt a more expansive approach to security.
Border Protection and Migration
Meloni called for stronger EU border protections, warning against Russia or criminal organizations controlling illegal migrant flows. Several EU nations, including Finland and Estonia, have accused Moscow of enabling illegal migration through its borders to destabilize member states.
Finland’s Prime Minister, Petteri Orpo, emphasized the existential importance of securing Finland’s 1,340-kilometer border with Russia for both his country and the broader EU-NATO alliance.
Meloni criticized the EU’s past approach to migration as overly focused on burden-sharing, calling it a failure to protect external borders. She declared, “We will not allow Russia or criminal organizations to undermine our security.”
A Comprehensive EU Security Framework
Meloni also called for a new EU strategy encompassing critical infrastructure, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, supply chains, and foreign policy. While NATO remains the cornerstone of EU security, she stressed the importance of addressing non-traditional threats.
“Security is not just about defense,” Meloni concluded. “It’s about protecting our democracy, resources, and the safety of our citizens.”
Conclusion
Meloni’s remarks underscore the urgency for the EU to rethink its security strategy, particularly in the face of Russia’s multifaceted tactics. As the bloc grapples with ongoing challenges, leaders aim to bolster collective resilience against emerging threats.
