Negotiations between the Italian government and Elon Musk’s satellite internet company, Starlink, have come to a standstill, according to Defense Minister Guido Crosetto. The talks, initially focused on enhancing secure communications for government and defense officials in high-risk areas, have been overshadowed by geopolitical tensions and public statements concerning Musk. CNA+1El País+1Reuters+2Reuters+2CNA+2
The Italian government had been considering a five-year contract valued at 1.5 billion euros with Starlink to ensure encrypted communications among government entities, diplomats, and defense personnel operating in risky regions. However, discussions have been halted due to controversies surrounding Musk’s political affiliations and comments, raising concerns about national security and the prudence of entrusting critical infrastructure to a foreign entity closely associated with former U.S. President Donald Trump. Reuters+2CNA+2Reuters+2
Opposition politicians and President Sergio Mattarella have expressed apprehensions about potential risks to national security and the confidentiality of sensitive data. Despite these concerns, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has defended the potential collaboration with Starlink, emphasizing the need to evaluate the best options for Italy’s security infrastructure. Financial Times+3El País+3Reuters+3
In the interim, Italy has installed Starlink antennas in its embassies located in Burkina Faso, Bangladesh, Lebanon, and Iran to test their functionality, though they have not been activated for active use. This move is part of broader efforts to enhance secure communications for government and defense officials in high-risk areas.
