Italy's Defence Minister Urges EU Clarity on Leipzig Drone Incident

Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto has called on Germany to share all available information about the attempted drone attack on Leipzig airport with its European partners, warning that the incident could mark a serious escalation in hybrid threats.

Speaking in Rome on Wednesday, Crosetto said he initially hoped the device — found last month near a Ukrainian aircraft and laden with explosives — was the work of an isolated individual. However, with Berlin formally blaming Russia on Tuesday, he stressed the need for collective European awareness.

"I would invite Germany to make public to other European governments everything they know," Crosetto said, adding that if the attack was orchestrated by the Russian state rather than a lone actor, "it takes on even greater connotations."

He noted that provocations attributed to Russia have been increasing for months, both through drone activity and on the ground, and described the Leipzig incident as a potentially "more serious leap" in that pattern.

Praise for Meloni's Leadership

In the same interview, Crosetto praised Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who recently became Italy's longest-serving post-war premier. He described her as exceptionally determined and hardworking, noting that she has sacrificed personal and private life in service of state institutions.

While downplaying the significance of the longevity record itself, Crosetto pointed to concrete achievements under her government, including lower youth unemployment, overall employment growth, and improved investor confidence. He highlighted the narrowing of Italy's bond spread relative to France, calling it a sign of credibility that was "unimaginable four years ago."

Continued Support for Ukraine

Crosetto also reaffirmed Italy's commitment to Ukraine, noting that twelve packages of military aid have already been delivered. He acknowledged that production capacity constraints have made replenishing stocks difficult but indicated that further assistance is being considered.

He identified air defence as Ukraine's most pressing need and mentioned the potential supply of SAMP/T batteries and Aster missiles in the coming months.

Reflecting on lessons from the war, Crosetto said the conflict has underscored that military strength remains essential for democracies, as weakness can leave nations vulnerable to those who view force as a tool of conquest.