Italy’s cabinet approved today a new decree authorising continued assistance to Kyiv, allowing Rome to maintain weapons transfers and logistical support beyond 2025. The measure will now require parliamentary approval.
The big picture: The decree largely mirrors previous aid packages adopted since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, underscoring Italy’s effort to balance alliance cohesion, domestic political sensitivities, and support for ongoing diplomatic initiatives.
By the numbers: Italian military assistance to Ukraine is estimated by defence officials to exceed €3 billion since 2022. Today’s measure is the 13th decree authorising military aid adopted by Italy under successive governments.
What’s in the decree:
- Continued military and civilian assistance, including logistics, medical support and defensive equipment against air, missile, drone and cyber threats.
- Renewal of exceptional residence permits for Ukrainian citizens already in Italy before February 24, 2022, has been extended until March 2027, in line with EU temporary protection rules.
- Public insurance coverage for Italian journalists and freelancers operating in conflict or high-risk zones.
What they’re saying: Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Antonio Tajani described the decree as “balanced,” reiterating Italy’s military, political and financial support for Ukraine while backing U.S.-led diplomatic efforts aimed at a ceasefire and a “just and lasting peace.”
- Italy’s Chief of Defence, General Luciano Portolano, said Rome continues to support Ukraine through military equipment authorised under successive interministerial decrees.
- In an interview with Il Sole 24 Ore published today, he added that any Italian role in a potential post-conflict or UN-backed mission would be a political decision, stressing that the armed forces “will be ready.”
- Portolano also warned that Russia remains a persistent threat to NATO, citing cyber operations, disinformation and broader hybrid warfare activities.
Between the lines:
The decree follows weeks of internal negotiations within the governing coalition, particularly over military assistance. Its approval reflects a compromise that preserves Italy’s pro-Ukraine stance without expanding its scope.
Broader context:
The move comes as EU institutions and member states have mobilised more than €170 billion in support of Ukraine since 2022, amid signals from Washington of a stronger emphasis on diplomacy. European partners, including Italy, are increasingly central to sustaining Kyiv’s economic and institutional resilience.
Security note:
As with previous aid packages, details on specific weapons systems will not be made public, citing security and operational reasons.
