The Financial Times reported that Western policy makers accuse Italy of blocking fresh tougher sanctions against Russia.
Earlier, Germany being Russia’s largest business partner in Europe used to be the main opponent of the hardline policy. However, recently Angela Merkel managed to break resistance of pro-Russian officials in the German ministry of foreign affairs. Therefore, Berlin has tightened up its policy on Russia. Lately, Rome has apparently become the main adversary of imposing the new round of sanctions. Italy is currently taking the presidency of the EU.
Stefano Sannino, Italy’s representative in the European Parliament, strenuously denied this allegation. Citing the Italian diplomat, Italy’s Premier Matteo Renzi assured Frau Merkel that Italy’s attitude fully coincides with that of France and Germany: the sanctions are essential, but they have to be introduced step by step.
Importantly, Italy is the second largest commercial partner of Russia in Europe. In 2013, the trade turnover with Russia yielded €30 billion to Italy. In case the sanctions are imposed in full, Italy’s economy will fall short of at least €10 billion. Moreover, Russia is likely to take countermeasures towards Italian entrepreneurs.
