Italy prepares 13th Ukraine arms package amid domestic concerns

Italy's government is preparing a 13th military aid package for Ukraine that is expected to be presented to the Parliamentary Committee for the Security of the Republic in early September, according to local media reports on Thursday. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Defense Minister Guido Crosetto reportedly reviewed the package again on Wednesday after an initial meeting scheduled for August 5 was postponed.

The delay came amid concerns within Meloni's administration regarding public support and growing opposition from right-wing political groups to further arms deliveries to Kyiv, according to daily La Repubblica. The package had been ready since July, and members of the parliamentary intelligence committee were initially alerted about the possible August session before the government postponed the briefing.

Air defense cooperation

Although the contents of Italy's military aid packages have remained classified since the start of the Russia-Ukraine war, the latest assistance reportedly focuses on strengthening Ukraine's air defenses with anti-aircraft systems and radar. Rome and Paris have also agreed to grant Ukraine a license to produce the Aster 30 B1NT — an advanced interceptor missile used against ballistic and aerial threats — while Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto has been coordinating with French and British officials to strengthen Kyiv's missile capabilities.

Humanitarian emphasis

Despite preparations for new military assistance, Rome has recently emphasized its humanitarian and civilian support for Ukraine, particularly ahead of winter. Following a meeting of Ukraine's allies on Monday, Meloni's office said Italy would continue providing generators to reinforce hospitals, schools, and energy infrastructure. The government has made little public reference to military supplies even as France and the UK announced additional deliveries of Storm Shadow and SCALP cruise missiles, according to the newspaper.