Italy advocates greater European responsibility within NATO without weakening US alliance (decode39.com)

• Italy raises defense spending to 2.8% of GDP, targeting 5% by 2035
• Focus on capabilities: air defense, ammunition, cyber, AI, space
• Continued support for Ukraine and sanctions against Russia
• Expulsion of two Russian military attachés for espionage
• Mediterranean security linked to eastern flank; Lebanon engagement

"In a joint briefing to parliamentary committees, Italian Foreign Minister Tajani and Defense Minister Crosetto outlined Rome's post-Ankara NATO priorities, including increased defense spending (2.8% of GDP, targeting 5% by 2035), a shift from spending targets to concrete military capabilities, continued support for Ukraine, and a holistic view linking eastern flank and Mediterranean security. Italy expelled two Russian military attachés for espionage and stresses hybrid threats."