Italy's parliament supports extension of military aid to Ukraine

Italy's Ansa news agency reports.

The lower house of the Italian parliament decided: "to continue to support, in accordance with the commitments made and what will be agreed within NATO and the EU, as well as in international forums of which Italy is a member, the Ukrainian authorities, including through the supply of military vehicles, materials, and equipment."

"The vote was 195 in favor, 50 against and 55 abstentions. Defense Minister Guido Crosetto stressed that support for Ukraine will remain strong and absolutely unchanged.

"There is still a long way to go with Ukraine, but it would be a dramatic strategic and political mistake to take a step back now. Our support must continue until the Russian attacks stop," he said in a statement.

According to Crosetto, Italy is also interested in participating in the demining coalition promoted by Lithuania.

"After 7 packages have already been officially issued, we have recently given the green light to send the eighth tranche of equipment, materials, and systems to Kyiv. This package of equipment and weapon systems is also aimed solely and exclusively at strengthening Ukraine's defense capabilities," said Defense Minister Guido Crosetto.

• On Saturday, 23 December, Crosetto said that alongside military support for Ukraine, a political solution to end the war should be sought.