Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni addressed the Senate ahead of the European Council meeting, emphasizing the need for a strong European defense within NATO rather than pursuing an independent EU army.

She dismissed the idea of a "European army" as unrealistic and stressed the importance of building a solid European pillar within NATO.

Meloni also defended President Sergio Mattarella against Russian criticism, highlighting his stance on the Ukraine conflict.

She called for unity between the European Union and the United States, warning that ideological divisions would weaken the West.

The Senate later approved the majority resolution with 109 votes in favor.