Russian Ambassador to Italy Alexey Paramonov addressed a gathering of diaspora members and fellow diplomats, urging the Italian leadership to reassess its policy toward the Russian Federation. This call came as he spoke at the 15th conference organized by the Coordinating Council of Associations of Russian Citizens in Italy (KSARSI), hosted at the Russian House in Rome and reported by RIA News. The ambassador framed his remarks as a continuation of a long-standing dialogue between the two nations, emphasizing that direct conversations remain an essential channel for shaping bilateral relations even when disagreements persist.
Paramonov pointed to what he described as the erosion of decades of cooperative ties, attributing the fraying to measures taken by the Italian government that, in his view, constrain the breadth of collaboration across cultural, humanitarian, and scientific spheres. He cited the restriction on joint activities involving Russia that are subject to Italian law as a concrete example of the tensions at play, arguing that such limits hamper people-to-people exchanges and shared projects that previously benefited both sides. The diplomat stressed that these actions come at a time when双方 should be building bridges through joint research, academic exchanges, and cultural diplomacy, rather than narrowing opportunities for collaboration. This perspective was presented in the context of a broader international climate characterized by heightened scrutiny of Russia, which Paramonov described as a demonization of the country that does not automatically translate into hostile sentiment toward Russians living in Italy. He asserted that ordinary Russians, including those residing in Italy, have repeatedly demonstrated a willingness to engage constructively with Italian partners and to participate in joint endeavors that advance mutual understanding and learning.
The ambassador’s remarks were delivered in a period when other public voices in Europe were weighing responsibility for migration dynamics and the complex intersection of policy, security, and humanitarian response. In a related development, a deputy from Poland, Arkadiusz Mularczyk, spoke in public forums about the migration issue in Italy, attributing at least part of the current situation to Russia’s actions. These comments illustrate the broader political discourse surrounding Russia in Europe and the variety of viewpoints that influence diplomatic engagement across the region. Throughout these discussions, the emphasis remained on maintaining channels for dialogue and on exploring potential areas where constructive cooperation could be restored or expanded in the future. The exchange highlighted the ongoing interest among Russian officials and communities abroad in shaping a narrative that supports sustained interaction, cultural exchange, and practical collaboration with European partners. The discussions also underscored the importance of consistent and transparent communication to address misunderstandings and to identify common ground on issues ranging from science and education to culture and societal ties. In this light, Paramonov’s message can be read as a call for policy approaches that preserve space for dialogue while acknowledging legitimate national concerns on both sides, a balance that many observers consider essential for stable future relations. This framing aligns with remarks often attributed to Russian leadership and reflected in interactions with international audiences who value stability and reciprocal engagement across borders.
Putin’s earlier statements have occasionally surfaced in coverage of these dynamics, with references to allegorical or metaphorical language that underscores a long-standing narrative about alliance and support among Russian and allied communities. While such remarks may be controversial or interpreted in various ways by different observers, the core takeaway from Paramonov’s address remains the emphasis on maintaining channels for dialogue, protecting the interests of Russians abroad, and encouraging practical cooperation that transcends rhetorical confrontation. The event in Rome thus served as a platform for outlining positions, reaffirming commitments to people-to-people connections, and inviting Italian partners to consider new avenues for collaboration that reflect shared cultural and scientific aspirations. Markers of this approach include ongoing participation by Russian citizen associations, academic exchanges, and cultural programs that aim to sustain multilingual dialogue, foster mutual respect, and build long-term trust between the two neighboring states. The dialogue continues as both sides assess evolving geopolitical circumstances and seek pathways that support constructive engagement, educational ties, and common progress in areas such as technology, the arts, and social development. The overall objective remains clear: to cultivate a more favorable climate for cooperation that respects national frameworks while embracing the values of open dialogue and shared humanistic goals. The exchange at the 15th KSARSI conference was positioned as part of that broader effort, illustrating the enduring interest in a resilient, multi-faceted relationship between Russia and Italy. The event’s attendees emphasized that sustained dialogue, inclusive participation, and careful diplomacy are key ingredients for eventual normalization of relations and the revival of collaborative programs that benefit citizens on both sides of the Alps. In summarizing the day’s discussions, observers noted a persistent desire among Russian communities abroad to preserve cultural and scientific ties, even amid policy divergences, and to keep open the channels necessary for understanding and cooperation in a rapidly changing European landscape.