The days preceding the G7 are more hectic than usual for the United States ambassador to Italy. Continuous travel between Rome and Washington, with frequent stops also in Puglia. For Jack Markell, appointed by Biden in July 2023, the work had already become complicated in recent months, among the many international summits that took place from one side of the peninsula to the other. From Venice to Capri, with the summit of Foreign Ministers, called to discuss the most complicated international crises that have been engaging international chancelleries but unfortunately also the troops for two years. All the preparations, including long ministerial discussions, technical and security dossiers, also pass through Jack Markell’s offices. And now attention is focused on the most awaited moment, with the arrival of Joe Biden at the Borgo Egnazia summit.
Ambassador, since you arrived in Rome the international geopolitical picture has become further complicated. In the context of the crisis, what role does the USA expect Italy to play?
«The United States and Italy have a strong relationship as allies, partners and friends. As Secretary of State Blinken stated in Capri, the partnership between the USA and Italy is the closest ever. We work together on all the most critical issues on the global agenda. As we approach the G7 in Puglia, I would like to commend Italy for its leadership, both in supporting Ukraine to defend itself from Russian aggression, and for its position on the conflict in the Middle East.”
In a few days the G7 in Puglia: what expectations does the Biden administration have on the leadership of the Meloni government?
«President Biden and Prime Minister Meloni have an excellent relationship. The United States stands ready to continue collaboration on climate change, economic growth, energy security, migration challenges, and artificial intelligence.”
Do you think it will be possible to find a legal solution that allows the seizure of Russian assets? Couldn’t this become a very risky precedent for the world economy?
«At the G7 Finance ministerial meeting in Stresa, Treasury Secretary Yellen addressed this important issue with Italian Minister Giorgetti and other G7 colleagues. On that occasion, the EU’s decision to allocate extraordinary profits from frozen Russian sovereign assets for the benefit of Ukraine was welcomed. The US is ready to work on more ambitious options.”
The commemoration of the Normandy landings focused on support for Ukraine. How long will it be possible to stand by Kiev?
«The United States will stand by the Ukrainian people until their security, sovereignty and autonomy are guaranteed. Any initiative for lasting peace must be based on respect for Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity. Russia is the only obstacle to peace in Ukraine.”
As we speak, we have before our eyes the dramatic images coming from the Middle East: do you believe that the requested ceasefire will really be achieved?
«I reiterate that the United States supports a ceasefire. We have expressed our concerns about a large-scale operation in Rafah. We remain committed to a lasting end to the conflict.”
How do you explain the fact that Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu appears deaf to President Biden’s appeals to stop the intervention in Rafah?
«Our discussions with Israel are ongoing. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan reaffirmed the need for Israel to link its military operations to a political strategy that can ensure the defeat of Hamas, the release of all hostages and a better future for Gaza. We have been very clear about humanitarian aid and also about the need for a two-state solution.”
The United States faces the electoral campaign in one of the most complex moments of international crisis. In the event of a change of leadership, is there a risk of a repositioning of Washington, especially in relations with Putin’s Russia?
«I can’t think about the outcome of the American elections. What I know is that, regardless of who wins, the relationship between the US and Italy will continue to be strong.”
The EU is also going to vote: do you think the risk of influence from Russia is real?
«Russian disinformation actions are underway in all our countries. I was in Capri when Blinken and Tajani signed an agreement to extend collaboration in countering the manipulation of information. By working closely together, the USA and Italy can face the challenge effectively.”
The EU thinks of common defense, how does the USA see the idea of a European army?
«The United States has always supported a strong, united, free and peaceful Europe. Italy and the USA are both original members of NATO, which has guaranteed the security of our countries for 75 years. It is the most successful, most enduring defense alliance in history. This success is due to the bond between Europe and North America based on shared history, values and objectives.”
The United States has 6 military bases in Italy: do you think it is necessary to strengthen the defense system in light of the repeated threats from the Kremlin?
«I had the pleasure of visiting the Italian communities that host these structures. We are grateful for everything Italy does to host our troops and their families. We appreciate Italy’s support for security in the Middle East, the Red Sea and around the world. But to address these common challenges, all NATO members must commit the resources necessary to ensure our common defense.”
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