Italy Accuses NATO Chief of Betrayal Over Envoy Appointment

Italy's Defense Minister Guido Crosetto criticized NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg for not appointing an Italian as the new envoy for NATO's southern flank. Crosetto argued that Italy had championed the role's creation and viewed Stoltenberg's choice of a Spaniard as a personal affront.

Italy's Defense Minister Guido Crosetto has accused NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg of a significant betrayal by not appointing an Italian to a newly established envoy role for NATO's southern flank. The Italian government had advocated for the role's creation, expecting an Italian appointee.

Despite ongoing speculation, NATO has yet to disclose who will fill the position. Crosetto expressed his dissatisfaction in an interview with La Stampa, revealing that Stoltenberg had chosen a Spaniard instead, and describing the decision as a 'personal affront.' NATO's press office stated that an announcement will be made in due course, without further comment.

In a notable outburst, Crosetto said he had sent a 'very angry message' to Stoltenberg and warned of personal consequences. He accused the NATO chief of betraying Italy, which had fought hard for the envoy role, and suggested that Stoltenberg opposed the role's creation.

As NATO prepares for a leadership change with former Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte succeeding Stoltenberg, Crosetto expressed hope that the new envoy role would be awarded based on merit.

(With inputs from agencies.)