Giorgetti Criticizes Urgency of EU’s Defence Spending Amid Ukraine Conflict

Ancona: Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti addressed a gathering of his right-wing League party on Saturday, labeling Europe’s ReArm plan as “singular” in light of the ongoing war in Ukraine, which began three years ago. Giorgetti expressed his views during the first of three rallies organized by the League prior to its federal congress.

According to Ansa News Agency, Giorgetti remarked on the sudden emphasis on defense spending, stating, “The fact that we suddenly discover that we need to spend an avalanche of billions getting into debt for defence is singular, given that there has been a war in Ukraine for three years.” The ReArm Europe plan, launched by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, calls for increased investment in defense capabilities.

The League party indicated on Thursday that, under the ReArm Europe plan, Italy should prioritize purchasing from Italian firms. Furthermore, the party emphasized that the European Union should extend the same level of attention to the Mediterranean region as it does to its eastern borders.

This stance was formed during discussions involving League leader and Deputy Premier Matteo Salvini, Giorgetti, and other senior party members, who evaluated defense investment strategies. The League stressed that any investment or defense plans must not exacerbate Italy’s national debt, which is the second highest in the eurozone after Greece.