Penalizing Russia with sanctions is “not the solution” to the Ukrainian crisis, according to Italy’s foreign minister, who has joined a growing number of voices in Europe questioning the effectiveness of solving diplomatic issues with economic pressure.
Although Italian Foreign Minister Paolo Gentiloni deems sanctions against Russia a “necessary evil,” he believes they are “not the solution” to the crisis in Ukraine. He said he would prefer to see “dialogue at all levels” taking place.
“We respect the sanctions, they are an instrument, but we need to arrive at a political solution,” Gentiloni told journalists in Rome.
Gentiloni has also emphasized the importance of Russia as a business partner for Italy.
His predecessor, Franco Frattini, was last week even more forthright on Italy’s business ties with Russia.
“How can you increase jobs and increase growth by decreasing trade with Russia?” he asked.
Italy has been heavily affected economically by import bans on agricultural products imposed by Russia as counter-sanctions, Frattini said.
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