Chapter 304: Mediation
As tensions between the Austro-Hungarian Empire and Italy escalated, British Foreign Secretary Earl Granville initiated emergency mediation. Representatives from Britain, Russia, France, Prussia, and Austria-Hungary met with Italian diplomat Gamor in Birmingham, England, to negotiate an armistice.
Gamor insisted that the Austro-Hungarian Empire must fully withdraw its troops from Italy, including Venice and Lombardy, and compensate Italy for its losses. However, Austrian Foreign Minister Friedrich argued that Italy was the aggressor and needed to bear responsibility for its actions. He suggested that Italy should change its name back to the Kingdom of Sardinia, recognize the independence of the Kingdom of Two Sicilies, and guarantee non-interference in the affairs of the Papal States and the Kingdom of Naples. In return, Austria-Hungary would regain control of Venice and Lombardy.
Earl Granville intervened, deeming Austria-Hungary's demands too harsh. He also reminded Friedrich not to introduce unrelated topics during the negotiations. The discussion remained focused on the Italian issue, with disputes over Venice, Lombardy, and the Kingdom of Two Sicilies.
Gamor argued that the Kingdom of Two Sicilies no longer existed, and the current regime in Naples was illegitimate. Friedrich, however, contended that the Kingdom of Two Sicilies should exist independently, as both Naples and Sicily had historical monarchs ruling their respective regions.
Earl Granville suggested temporarily setting aside the Kingdom of Two Sicilies issue due to its controversial nature. The negotiations continued with the hope of reaching a resolution.
The mediation aimed to find a peaceful solution to the ongoing conflict between the Austro-Hungarian Empire and Italy, but both sides remained deeply divided over the terms of the armistice and the fate of disputed territories.