Italian Defence Minister says US restrictions on Ukraine support risk prolonging war

What happened

Italy's Defence Minister Guido Crosetto told the BBC that the US decision to limit Ukraine’s access to satellite systems and intelligence is a 'complete mistake' that risks prolonging Russia's full-scale invasion. Crosetto argued that restricting support sends a message of weakness to Vladimir Putin and undermines Ukraine’s defence efforts.

Outside Brief is treating this as a source-led account. Any disputed responsibility, casualty figure or battlefield claim should be read as unconfirmed/hearsay unless confirmed by another reliable source. Crosetto, a co-founder of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s right-wing Fratelli d'Italia party, said peace would come only if Putin perceives a stalemate and inability to advance further. He warned that if Ukraine appears weak, especially due to US restrictions on resources, Putin may continue the war, a scenario he called 'completely wrong.'

Italy has consistently supported Ukraine with military and humanitarian aid, despite public scepticism and rising domestic discontent over energy costs and inflation, which has sparked protests including demands to prioritise education funding over arms. Polls indicate only 18% support continuing arms deliveries, and a far-right party which opposes aid to Ukraine is gaining strength.

Known from the source

• Italy’s Defence Minister Guido Crosetto criticized US restrictions on intelligence and satellite support to Ukraine in a BBC interview.
• Crosetto stated US limitations risk prolonging Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
• Crosetto warned that perceived weakness on Ukraine’s side encourages Putin to continue the war.
• Italy’s government under Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has provided military and humanitarian aid to Ukraine since 2022.
• Polling in Italy shows low support (around 18%) for continuing arms deliveries to Ukraine.

What remains unclear

Crosetto also highlighted a Russian disinformation campaign targeting political figures and narratives in Italy to shape opinion and weaken support for Ukraine. He stressed the importance of maintaining a firm stance despite domestic challenges, framing Russian aggression as 'evil' based on four years of warfare including attacks on civilians and infrastructure.

What remains unclear: Whether the US has actually limited Ukraine’s access to satellite systems and intelligence as alleged by Crosetto. Details on the sources or specifics of US restrictions referenced. Any official US response to Crosetto’s criticism beyond the denials already noted. Ensure all claims about Russian disinformation campaigns are properly contextualized and attributed.

Evidence note

Outside Brief has kept this brief source-led and attributed. Claims should be read alongside the original source linked below.

Original source: BBC Europe Ukraine. Open the source.