Rome – In an interview with the BBC, Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto strongly criticized the prospect of, or steps by, the U.S. administration led by Donald Trump aimed at limiting Ukraine's access to satellite systems and intelligence information.According to Crosetto, such restrictions are "a total mistake, a huge mistake" that risk prolonging the Russian invasion rather than helping to achieve peace.
Criticism of the Trump administration's approach
The defense minister warned that reducing intelligence support to Kyiv "makes absolutely no sense".
"Peace will come when Putin is convinced that he has reached a stalemate, from which he can no longer advance", Crosetto explained from the Ministry headquarters in Rome."If Putin sees weakness on the Ukrainian side — and depriving Ukraine of resources creates weakness — then he will believe he can win and will continue the war".
U.S. officials downplayed reports of deliberate slowdowns of internet networks or the suspension of air-raid alerts. However, Crosetto's position comes amid growing tensions between Rome and Washington.Just a few days ago, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni had described as "very risky" the deal signed by Trump to purchase diesel from Russia, stressing that such a move risks "granting legitimacy to Russia" even as it continues its bombardments.
Italian support and domestic political challenges
Despite public skepticism, the Meloni government has maintained a policy of firm support for Ukraine, sending both military and humanitarian aid.Crosetto reiterated that military support will continue "for as long as this government remains in office".
However, the minister acknowledged that securing parliamentary approval for new aid packages will become more difficult as the general election (scheduled by the end of 2027) approaches.Political pressure is also growing from figures within the right-wing camp, such as Roberto Vannacci (who leads the Futuro Nazionale movement), who opposes sending further weapons and resources to Kyiv.
Responding to questions about Vannacci and his position, Crosetto dismissed the matter, saying he had "more serious matters to deal with", reiterating a clear condemnation of Russian aggression:
"When one state crosses another state's borders with tanks, when it bombs hospitals and schools, kills civilians, and strikes power plants for four years, I can describe all of this only as evil".
Public opinion, disinformation, and cyber threats
Polls show that the majority of Italians oppose continuing to send weapons (a survey by the Istituto Ixè put support at just 18%).Among the causes are rising energy prices, the cost of living, student and trucker protests, as well as a deeply rooted pacifist tradition.
Crosetto also identified a massive disinformation campaign conducted by Moscow as a key factor:
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Targeted disinformation: Operations aimed at influencing political figures and narratives to weaken the anti-Russian political climate and sway public opinion.
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Prices and public perception: Crosetto noted how difficult it is to explain to a citizen facing high fuel prices that no concessions can be made to Russia, even though this is the only way to defend that citizen's future.
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Cyber threats and incidents: The minister clarified that the fire at a weapons depot near Rome was not arson but the result of "human stupidity", nor has reporting on alleged drone attacks been substantiated.However, he confirmed the existence of hundreds of daily cyberattacks attributed to Russia, highlighting the need for a more forceful European response: "You cannot win a war if you do not respond".
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