Ukraine Unlikely to Regain Lost Territories, Says Defence Minister Crosetto

Rome: Defence Minister Guido Crosetto has expressed his belief that Ukraine will not be able to recover Crimea and the territories it lost to Russia following the 2022 invasion. Crosetto’s remarks were made in an interview with journalist Bruno Vespa for Vespa’s forthcoming book ‘Finimondo’, with excerpts released by publishers Mondadori-Rai Libri.

According to Ansa News Agency, Crosetto stated, “Recapturing the territories lost in 2014 and after February 2022 is now considered impossible by everyone.” He explained that Russia has entrenched its position by amending its constitution, labeling these occupied regions as Russian, thus making it challenging for President Putin to negotiate their return.

Crosetto also highlighted the influence of Russian propaganda on Italian citizens. He mentioned that many Italians have unknowingly been swayed by Russian misinformation efforts. “Russia is already attacking us with a hybrid, cognitive war,” he stated, noting the scientific and calculated manner in which Russian propaganda has been disseminated through social and information platforms.

The Defence Minister emphasized the subtle yet effective nature of this infiltration, which has managed to influence the cultural and intellectual landscape without the awareness of ordinary citizens.