Italian government backs continuation of military assistance to Ukraine – media

On Monday, the government of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni approved the extension of the authorisation for the transfer of military aid to Ukraine.

As reported by Italian news agency ANSA, the government approved a decree containing "urgent provisions for the extension of the authorisation for the transfer of military vehicles, materials and equipment to the government authorities of Ukraine".

The decision to provide military assistance to Ukraine was initially made by the previous Italian government under Mario Draghi. After Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni assumed office in autumn 2022, her Council of Ministers extended this authority for 2023 and again for 2024.

Prime Minister Meloni's government requires parliamentary approval to send weapons to Ukraine. The current authorisation is valid until the end of 2024.

In December, the Italian government approved the 10th package of military aid to Ukraine since the start of the full-scale Russian invasion. However, details regarding the delivery of weapons are classified.