Italy prepares new military aid package for Ukraine with ammunition and SAMP/T missile systems
According to Bloomberg, Italy is actively working on the twelfth aid package for Ukraine, focusing on the supply of munitions and missiles for the advanced SAMP/T air defense systems.
Sources within the government revealed that this package could be ready by the end of this year, although its approval and implementation depend on parliamentary procedures.
The Italian government, led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, has already sent Ukraine 11 aid packages since the full-scale invasion by Russia in 2022, with an overall value estimated between 2.5 and 3 billion euros.
In addition to munitions and missiles, Italy has provided Kyiv with two SAMP/T batteries, significantly strengthening Ukraine’s air defenses.
Details of these packages remain confidential due to their sensitive nature, highlighting the importance of the support.
These steps indicate a firm stance by Meloni’s government to support Ukraine despite limited national budget capabilities.
Furthermore, Italy is considering activating national mechanisms to relax defense spending restrictions after the completion of procedures related to excessive budget deficits, as provided by EU regulations.
Additionally, Italy has expressed willingness to participate in NATO’s PURL initiative for purchasing American weapons, including Patriot missiles, financed through European funds.
The exact contribution from Italy has yet to be determined.
Media reports suggest that countries not yet part of the PURL program face mounting pressure to join, reflecting efforts within NATO to bolster collective defense capabilities amidst ongoing challenges.