On 22 March, Italy’s Defence Minister, Guido Crosetto, revealed that negotiations regarding a potentially monumental contract between Elon Musk‘s satellite internet enterprise, Starlink, and the Italian government have hit an impasse, mirroring the increasing geopolitical tensions that envelop Europe. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni‘s government focuses on securing robust, encrypted communications for its officials, diplomats, and military personnel operating in perilous regions. Starlink has emerged as a principal contender for this vital system.
Meloni, an outspoken ally of US President Donald Trump‘s political ideologies, has long envisioned a strengthened alliance with the United States, which could elevate Italy’s economic prospects and augment Rome’s influence within European and Mediterranean affairs. However, she finds herself entangled in a complex diplomatic balancing act, as Trump’s contentious actions have driven a wedge between Italy and its European counterparts.
Starlink is a formidable force in the satellite communications realm, boasting a constellation of 6,700 active low-orbit satellites, and has been delivering its services to Italian customers since 2021. Sources close to the discussions suggest that the Italian government is contemplating a groundbreaking five-year agreement valued at approximately 1.5 billion euros with the tech giant.
Yet, this ambitious prospect has ignited a fierce backlash among opposition politicians who question the prudence of entrusting a national security contract to a foreign entrepreneur closely linked to Trump. Crosetto, in an interview with La Repubblica, noted that the dialogue has veered away from practical, technical matters to the often controversial “statements” made by and about Musk. He expressed a desire for discussions to return to their technical roots once tensions subside, emphasising that the focus must return to safeguarding what is in the nation’s best interest.
Meanwhile, the far-right League Party, a minor coalition partner in Meloni’s cabinet, is clamouring for the government to push ahead with the deal.
