Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni delivered a strong message during her visit to the Šiauliai air base in Lithuania, where she met the Italian military contingent engaged in the NATO Baltic Air Policing mission. The Prime Minister emphasised that Europe’s security, both physical and digital, is under threat and stated that the European Union will not tolerate attempts at destabilisation by Russia or other hostile entities.

Cyber security as a strategic priority

During her speech, Meloni highlighted the role of cyber security in ensuring the stability of European democracies. As cyber threats intensify, she drew attention to the increasing use of cyber warfare by state and non-state actors:
“Security is not only about physical borders, but also about protecting our digital infrastructure, democratic institutions and public opinion. It is a war that is also being fought in cyberspace and we must be prepared.”

Meloni emphasised how disinformation operations, attacks on critical systems and digital influence are increasingly being used to destabilise Europe. “We need to ensure that our systems are resilient and protected from infiltration and manipulation attempts.”

Russian influence: a multidimensional threat

The PM warned that the Russian threat is not limited to the battlefield in Ukraine, but extends to a range of tactics aimed at undermining European security.
“We have to understand that the threat is much bigger than we imagine: it concerns our democracies, the instrumentalisation of immigration and what is happening in Africa. It is not just about the battlefield, but a war that affects every level of our society. We have to be prepared,’ said Meloni.

In particular, he highlighted how cyber attacks are a strategic weapon used to sabotage infrastructures, destabilise economies and influence political elections. This makes greater European collaboration in the field of cyber security and intelligence imperative.

Italy’s role in EU cyber defence

Italy, according to Meloni, is ready to play a leading role in the cyber defence of Europe. Strengthening the cyber capabilities of the armed forces and civil institutions is a priority of the Italian government. The PM reiterated the importance of investing in advanced technologies and training, collaborating with European and international partners to create an integrated defence network.

“Our security depends on the ability to anticipate and counter cyber threats. We cannot allow our systems to be vulnerable,” he said, also emphasising the need for public-private partnerships to develop innovative solutions.

Towards a safer Europe

Concluding, Meloni called on European leaders to keep their guard up:
“The European Union must face these challenges with unity and determination. We cannot allow hostile actors to put our security or our sovereignty at risk.”

Meloni’s appeal reflects a growing awareness of the need for a common cybersecurity strategy that is not limited to national defence but is able to protect the entire continent from future threats.