Italy’s Prime Minister remains focused on pressuring Russia economically to push toward peace in Ukraine, while signaling caution on any move to reinstate Moscow as a gas supplier.

In Verona, she ties Europe’s energy stance to peace efforts, noting short-term LNG restrictions on Russia with bans starting April 25 and full bans slated for January 1, 2027.

Her remarks echo concerns from Eni’s Claudio Descalzi about replacing about 20 billion cubic meters of Russian LNG amid an uncertain supply landscape.

EU energy-security considerations, shaped by Middle East disruptions and tight storage and infrastructure, are prompting governments to weigh all supply options, though no immediate policy shifts are planned.

Any reconsideration of Russian gas would require political consensus, contract adjustments, sanctions checks, and diversification risk analyses, according to industry sources.

The discussions occur against a backdrop of broader European energy-market strains as Middle East dynamics influence LNG availability.

Meloni says it’s too early to review Russian gas options and that Italy has not endorsed reinstating Moscow, despite rising energy-security concerns linked to Middle East tensions.

Speaking at a wine fair, she cautions Europe against policy shifts amid energy-supply concerns tied to Iran-era tensions and the Strait of Hormuz disruption.

Decisions on reconsidering Russian gas will need additional time for assessment within national and EU sanctions and energy-security frameworks.

Italy’s League ally explores a plan to freeze energy prices near pre-Iran-war levels, with discussions reportedly taking place between Matteo Salvini and Economy Minister Giorgetti, though specifics aren’t disclosed.

Meloni says any reopening discussions would occur in Brussels-led forums, not unilaterally, and no decision is imminent.

She reiterates that maintaining economic pressure on Russia is the most effective route to peace in Ukraine and cautions against prematurely easing Moscow sanctions or gas bans.