Reinforcing transatlantic ties. On Wednesday, Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Antonio Tajani hosted General Christopher G. Cavoli, the Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) and commander of US forces in Europe (United States European Command), underscoring the critical role of the US–Italy relationship for Euro-Atlantic security.
- They examined European security’s primary challenges, including developments in Ukraine and the evolving nature of NATO operations.
- Tajani reiterated Italy’s commitment to a just, durable peace by advocating for greater UN Security Council involvement and enhanced multilateral military mechanisms.
Strategic priorities. The dialogue stressed the necessity of a 360-degree approach to security, emphasising NATO’s southern flank and Mediterranean stability.
- Tajani confirmed Italy’s determination to boost defence spending to 2% of GDP—potentially through adjustments in the Stability Pact—to secure a more substantial role within the alliance.
- Italy spends just over 1.50% (or €32.7 billion) on defence, and the forecast is for gradual growth to 1.61% in 2027.
Italian contributions. General Cavoli, an Italian-American with nearly forty years of service, lauded Italy’s significant contributions to NATO, notably through its active participation in missions across the Mediterranean, Western Balkans, and Africa.
- His visit included meetings at key interforce commands, underscoring Italian forces’ operational readiness and interoperability.
- Meeting with Cavoli on Tuesday, the Italian Chief of Defence Staff, General Luciano Portolano, emphasised the importance of interoperability between assets and rapid intervention capability in response to global crises, reiterated Italy’s commitment within NATO, highlighting the support provided to Ukrainian forces in terms of assistance, training and strategic supplies.
