Andrea Innocenti During the League party congress, held on October 26, 2026, the party leader firmly stated that Italy must say "no" to further money and weapons destined for Ukraine. This statement, uttered by the future deputy prime minister, immediately sparked discussion within the governing coalition , where the prime minister and other members exhibited significant divergences of opinion.
Matteo Salvini 's words— "No to weapons in Kiev"—were perceived as an internal signal rather than an external imposition. However, the harsh tone also affected the leaders of the governing party, including Giorgia Meloni , who preferred to focus her attention on the ongoing economic package, avoiding immediate comment on her League colleague's statements.
Salvini's statements at the League congress
In his speech from the podium, Salvini emphasized that Italy can no longer support a conflict he calls "a third-party war," arguing for the need to end the aid policy before the end of the legislative session. He also demanded that the government no longer consider Ukraine "a second-rate ally," a comment that raised eyebrows among members of the majority.
Impacts on the center-right coalition
The League leader's remarks irritated the prime minister, who was then forced to publicly congratulate Salvini, postponing the request to work together "responsibly." The conciliatory tone attempted to ease tensions, but the underlying disagreement on the military issue remained evident.
Government reaction: Crosetto and Tajani reiterate their position
Defense Minister Guido Crosetto reiterated in a meeting in Paris with his colleagues from the E5 group that assistance to Ukraine is not a simple act of solidarity, but a direct defense of Italy's future and security . He emphasized that Russian aggression represents a threat to the entirety of Europe, an argument Meloni has already reiterated in Parliament in recent days.
Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani announced that the thirteenth military aid package is ready and will be sent to Kiev as soon as the bureaucratic procedures are completed. The package, scheduled for delivery by the end of the year , is currently limited by a decree-law that expires at the end of 2026, making its renewal urgent.
Details on the next package
According to international statements, the new intervention will primarily consist of civilian equipment rather than munitions, while maintaining the commitment to continue supporting Ukraine. The lack of a specific date has not prevented the government from ensuring that the contribution will arrive "as soon as possible," so as not to weaken Italy's position within NATO and the European Union.
Internal tensions and electoral prospects
Within the majority, the opposition, led by Carlo Calenda , has asked Meloni to choose between "abandoning Kiev or abandoning Salvini." Meanwhile, the debate on the end-of-term vote has remained open, with the League and Forza Italia competing for the mayoral candidacy of Milan. Uncertainty over these internal dynamics could further exacerbate friction over foreign policy issues.
Salvini 's words prompted a very firm response from Ministers Crosetto and Tajani, who emphasized the impartiality of Italy's position on Ukraine and the readiness of the next assistance package, demonstrating that, for now, the government's strategy remains stable despite internal pressure.