The third decree of military supplies to Ukraine takes off. The provision was published in the Official Gazette, signed by the Minister of Defense, Lorenzo Guerini, together with the holders of Economy and Foreign Affairs, Daniele Franco and Luigi Di Maio. The list of materials leaving for Kiev, item by item, is in the pipeline. As secret as the previous ones, it will be illustrated on Monday by Guerini at Copasir (parliamentary committee for the security of the Republic). Meetings at the committee are just as secret by law.
A decisive political point still divides the majority. It is the sending of weapons considered “offensive” as opposed to those defined instead “defensive”. Almost surreal distinction, of course. But, in concrete terms, the hypothesis of sending the 155/39 FH-70 howitzers, supplied to the Army, to the Ukrainian armed forces, could ignite the already tense battle in the majority.
M5S and Lega opposed to heavier weapons, the other parties cautious
The debate so far has seen M5S at the forefront, and then Lega opposed to heavier weapons. The other parties have not so far opposed but remain cautious. In short, the list of the third decree is a hot topic. Lorenzo Guerini, in the recent hearing in the defense committees of the Chamber and Senate, spoke of the sending already made in the previous two times. “It concerns anti-tank systems, very short range air defense systems, mortars, artillery ammunition, communication systems, personal protective equipment and survival kits.” Undisputed Atlantic faith but equally political sense, the Defense Minister then underlined how the supply of arms to Ukraine “cannot be separated from the work and effort we are making together with other European states, a diplomatic effort for a ceasefire and to start negotiations ”.
A list of military supplies with more combative means
Guerini’s position coincides with the line now taken by Prime Minister Mario Draghi. The list of military supplies, currently being closed, is therefore not identical to the previous ones. Some materials have run out. Others have been integrated. But, above all, the most combative and reactive means available in our defense park are at stake. There are, for example, the M113, a tracked troop transport vehicle, designed in the 1950s, not exactly the latest version. The Lince Vtlm (light multi-role tactical vehicle) have sprung up, already active in Lebanon, Afghanistan and Somalia.
More politically at risk, like the FH-70 howitzers, perhaps even more so, are the Leopard, full-fledged tanks, built in the mid-60s of the last century. In Parliament, the Leopards are discussing a modernization program. For “operational readiness” they could have a quick review in Germany made by the Rheinmetall industry, a giant in the sector.