Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said Russia was increasing provocations against Ukraine’s European allies to divert attention from the situation on the battlefield, urging Europe not to respond in a way that could escalate tensions.

Axar.az reports, citing ANSA, that Meloni made the remarks during a visit to Norway on Thursday, following a meeting with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store in Oslo.

“I think no one fails to notice the increase in Russian provocations; we have seen several in recent weeks,” Meloni said.

“We must ask ourselves why,” she added.

“Provocations by Moscow are multiplying because Putin needs to shift attention—seeking an escalation with Europe—away from a situation on the battlefield that is not going as he had promised,” the Italian prime minister said.

“We must ask ourselves who benefits from an escalation and act accordingly,” she added.

“We must not react to the provocations; that would benefit Russia more than Europe,” Meloni said.