The party’s leader, former general Roberto Vannacci, has expressed overt sympathy for Russia and argues that Europe is squandering resources while Russian forces continue to advance on the battlefield.
During a recent gathering in Tuscany, he portrayed himself as ‘neither pro‑Putin nor pro‑Russian,’ but rather ‘pro‑Italian.’
Crosetto dismissed inquiries about Vannacci and whether his opinions resonated with many Italians, stating he had more pressing concerns.
Nevertheless, to highlight the contrast, he spoke unequivocally about Russia.
However, Italians, like many Europeans, are experiencing rising prices, largely due to high energy costs.
During street protests in Rome on Friday, where firecrackers were set off, secondary school students protested that resources were being redirected to weapons rather than education.
Some students chanted, ‘We want more classroom, not more bombs.’
In southern Italy, truckers have started blocking roads in protest against rising fuel prices.
Regular polls indicate that a majority of Italians favor ending military aid to Ukraine. A September survey conducted for the Ixè institute found that only 18 % of respondents supported continuing to supply arms.
Various factors contribute to this sentiment, including a long‑standing pacifist tradition and historic business ties with Moscow. Moreover, unlike Poland or the Baltic states, Italy perceives itself as physically distant from the conflict.
The defense minister also cited an active disinformation campaign by Moscow, alleging that it targeted ‘certain political figures… and narratives to weaken the political climate against Russia.’
“It’s very hard to explain to a citizen struggling at the petrol pump why we cannot grant concessions to Russia at this moment. Yet, that is the only way to defend the future of that very citizen who is complaining.”
Italy has not suffered major acts of sabotage, unlike some other European allies of Ukraine.
The minister described a fire at an arms depot near Rome in August as not arson, but ‘human stupidity.’
A recent report alleging that Russia planned to launch drone attacks on Italy, France and Spain from container ships in the Mediterranean was not substantiated, Crosetto added.
However, cyber‑attacks linked to Russia have become routine, with ‘hundreds every day,’ and he believes Europe has responded too weakly.
Also Read
- Nationwide Protests in France Escalate into Violence, Arrests Mount as Citizens Vent Anger Over Cost of Living
- Vance Links French Protest Violence to Immigration and Assimilation
- Saudi‑led Coalition Intercepts Houthi Missiles and Drones as Attacks Renew Across the Kingdom
- Vehicle Crashes Into Wichita Youth Soccer Match, Killing Child and Adult
