Italian President Sergio Mattarella urged a common European defense alongside NATO, saying Italy’s armed forces must adapt as security challenges extend across cyber operations, disinformation and emerging technologies.
In a Nov. 4 message published by the Presidency of the Republic of Italy and sent to Defense Minister Guido Crosetto for National Unity and Armed Forces Day, Mattarella cited competition in space, cyber operations, artificial intelligence and autonomous systems, as well as disinformation. He called for quicker integration of new technology and stronger capabilities to meet future challenges.
Mattarella described a security environment that includes conventional conflicts as well as pressure in newer domains. He also said Italian forces contribute to peace through international initiatives and work with allied countries to protect areas important to Italy’s security and economic well-being.
He characterized a common European defense effort as urgent and said it should complement the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). The message did not identify a next decision or timetable for such an effort.
Mattarella also expressed condolences for Italian military personnel recently killed in Bosnia-Herzegovina. The Nov. 4 observance marks the end of World War I fighting between Italy and Austria-Hungary and celebrates Italian unity.
