A new Cold War between Russia and the West would be an "absolute disaster" in international politics, Gentiloni told Italian daily La Stampa.
"It would be an absolute disaster, I hope the Russian side won't take any actions that would lead to such a turn of events," Gentiloni said, speaking about whether there is a risk for a confrontation between the West and Russia.
The head of the Italian Foreign Ministry said the majority of the international community supports the idea of using sanctions and dialogue when it comes to dealing with Russia. Italy, however, insists only on "the path of dialogue," Gentiloni said.
Relations between Russia and the West deteriorated over the Ukraine crisis. The West accuses Moscow of fuelling Ukraine's internal conflict, imposing several rounds of sanctions against it.
Russia has repeatedly denied the allegations and has actively participated in international efforts to find a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict.