The Italian Senate has finally approved a decree on aid to Ukraine
The Senate confirmed the vote of confidence put forward by the government on the decree on Ukraine and approved it as law. 106 parliamentarians voted in favour, 57 against, and two abstained.
The vote of confidence in the Senate is unanimous, so all opposition forces, Pd, M5s, Avs, Italia viva and Azione, voted against it. Among them was Carlo Calenda's group, which traditionally supported Kyiv, as well as democrats and representatives of Matteo Renzi, who had previously approved aid to Ukraine, including military aid, with the exception of votes of confidence. The opposition's joint position was heard in the chamber. "We were forced by trust," the parliamentarians said. Alessandro Alfieri of the Pd said that the majority blocked the text "to hide your differences and difficulties."
The decree extends until 31 December 2026 the authorisation to transfer funds, materials and military equipment to the Ukrainian authorities, with priority given to civilian logistics and medical supplies, as well as systems for protection against air and missile attacks. The document also regulates the extension of residence permits granted to Ukrainian citizens under special protection until 4 March 2027, as well as the issue of the safety of freelance journalists.
The Chamber of Deputies adopted this document on 11 February. Three Futuro Nazionale Vannacci deputies voted against it, but at the same time they supported the vote of confidence.
Senator Ester Mieli of Fratelli d'Italia said during her speech in the chamber: "Four years after the start of the conflict, the strategic balance shows the reality: Ukraine has not only not been occupied, but has also demonstrated extraordinary resistance. Russian control over the territory is about 20%, including Crimea and part of Donbas, already occupied by Moscow in 2014, while the Ukrainian army has advanced and regained control over large territories. Fratelli d'Italia has always been on Kyiv's side and realises that resistance was fundamental."
She added: "Fratelli d'Italia, even when it was in opposition, made a choice: to stand up for the sovereignty of Ukraine and of Europe as a whole. In the government, Giorgia Meloni has consistently continued this line. This position is recognised internationally and makes our country one of Ukraine's most reliable partners. Unlike those who want to portray us as belligerent, Fratelli d'Italia understands that freedom has its price. This means being free, independent and sovereign. National interests are defended through dialogue and diplomacy, but also through determination and restraint. Supporting Ukraine does not mean prolonging the conflict, but preventing the end of hostilities from turning into a fictitious peace.
