As a domain expert in historical studies with a focus on World War I, I can provide a detailed account of Italy's position shift during the war. The question of when Italy switched sides is a complex one, as it involves a series of diplomatic and military decisions that led to Italy's eventual alignment with the Allies.

Step 1: English Answer
During World War I, Italy initially had a defensive alliance with Germany and Austria-Hungary through the Triple Alliance. However, Italy did not immediately enter the war on the side of its allies. Instead, it pursued a policy of neutrality at the outbreak of hostilities in 1914. The reasons for Italy's neutrality were multifaceted, including unresolved territorial disputes with Austria-Hungary, particularly over the Trentino and the South Tyrol regions, as well as Italian ambitions in the Adriatic Sea.

The Treaty of London, signed on April 26, 1915, was a pivotal moment in Italy's decision to switch sides. The treaty was a secret agreement between Italy and the Allies (primarily the United Kingdom, France, and Russia), which promised Italy significant territorial gains if it joined the war on the side of the Allies. These gains included territories from Austria-Hungary, such as the South Tyrol, Trentino, Istria, and several Adriatic islands, as well as a share of the Ottoman Empire's non-European territories.

On May 23, 1915, Italy officially declared war on Austria-Hungary but maintained a formal state of neutrality with Germany. This decision was strategic; Italy sought to weaken the Central Powers by attacking Austria-Hungary, which was considered the weaker of the two central powers. The decision to maintain neutrality with Germany was also a practical one, as Italy was not yet prepared for a full-scale conflict with both Central Powers.

The Italian decision to enter the war on the side of the Allies was not without controversy. Domestically, there was significant opposition to the war, and the Italian intervention was met with mixed reactions from the public. Moreover, the Italian military was not fully prepared for the challenges of modern warfare, which led to significant losses and hardships throughout the war.

Despite these challenges, Italy's entry into the war on the side of the Allies was a significant turning point in World War I. It marked the end of the Triple Alliance's unity and added a new front to the war, stretching the resources of the Central Powers and contributing to their eventual defeat.

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On 1915 Italy Declares war on Austria- Hungary but not on Germany on May 23. Italy signed the treaty of London, Committing itself to enter WWI on the side of the allies on April 26, 1915. Italy Is Looking For support against France. Germany and Austria-Hungary's Secret formed in Italy.read more >>