Strasbourg - As the European Parliament convenes to address the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and overall European defense strategies, the Five Star Movement (M5S) has reiterated its strong opposition to European rearmament initiatives.

On March 11, 2023, around 50 M5S deputies, senators, and their leader Giuseppe Conte gathered outside the Parliament building, brandishing a banner that read, 'NO MORE MONEY FOR WEAPONS.' This action is part of a broader mobilization spearheaded by Conte to sway public opinion against the Rearm EU Plan, which he has described as 'absolutely wrong, devoid of any political but also military rationality.'

Conte expressed his concerns through a video statement en route to Strasbourg, criticizing the prevailing military strategies adopted by the EU member states.

He remarked, 'A completely politically deficient Europe has embraced the military strategy convinced it can beat Russia on an armed conflict level.' He conveyed his discontent with decisions made by the 27 member states during the EU Council meeting on March 6, claiming that European leaders have opted for 'acquiescence, subservience to Washington.' Instead of advocating for increased defense spending, Conte proposed a pooling of resources already planned by individual states and a unified command or common foreign policy for Europe.

During a session in the European Parliament, M5S Member of the European Parliament (MEP) Danilo Della Valle criticized a proposed €800 billion defense plan.

He placed a European flag sewn with a peace flag on an empty bench that had been occupied by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, declaring that 'the president will be remembered for betraying values and democracy.

Europe without peace is dead.' The Five Star Movement delegation further displayed their stance by showcasing posters stating, 'No to rearmament,' 'No more weapons,' and 'More work, less weapons.'

In a press briefing following the plenary session, Conte emphasized the necessity for security through negotiations as well as investment in sectors such as health, education, and human capital.

He suggested that the fear of Putin could be addressed through dialogue and collaboration, referencing the historical context of the Helsinki Accords.

Critiquing Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's proposal to rebrand the Rearm EU plan as 'Defend EU,' Conte described it as a move that would transition Italy into a 'war economy.' Regarding proposals from Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti, who has suggested supporting defense initiatives without incurring new debt through private investment, Conte dismissed them as 'nothing concrete,' noting that the defense sector is unsuitable for private capital involvement.

The M5S asserts that Europe's response to the Russian threat should prioritize negotiations over military escalation.