Negotiations between the Italian government and Elon Musk’s satellite internet company, Starlink, have stalled, according to Italy’s Defense Minister Guido Crosetto. The potential contract, which could have seen Starlink provide secure communications for Italy’s government and defense officials, has been delayed due to shifting discussions from technical issues to political concerns surrounding Musk’s statements and associations.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government had been exploring a deal with Starlink to guarantee encrypted communications for diplomats and defense officials in high-risk areas. The proposed deal, valued at 1.5 billion euros ($1.62 billion) over five years, would have seen Starlink’s satellite services expand in Italy, where the company has been operating since 2021 with around 7,000 low-orbit satellites in use globally. However, tensions have arisen due to opposition from Italian politicians questioning the appropriateness of granting a national security contract to a foreign businessman with strong ties to U.S. President Donald Trump.
Crosetto emphasized that discussions should return to a technical level once the political tensions subside, stating that the ultimate goal is to determine what is safest and most useful for Italy’s national security. He referred to Musk as a “visionary genius” but acknowledged the complex political context surrounding the deal.
The situation also reflects the broader geopolitical balancing act that Meloni’s government faces as it navigates Italy’s alliance with the United States. Meloni’s coalition partner, the far-right League, has continued to support both Musk and Trump, putting additional pressure on the government.
Meanwhile, Andrea Stroppa, a representative for Musk in Italy, suggested that while Italy and its European partners should consider developing their own satellite infrastructure, Starlink could offer the most viable solution in the short term to meet urgent operational needs.