Italian Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Antonio Tajani said he does not rule out attempts by Russia to interfere in democratic processes in European Union countries, including efforts to influence elections in Italy. He made the remarks on September 2 in Ireland as he arrived for an informal meeting of EU foreign ministers (Gymnich) in Wicklow.
“This is a general issue; it is an issue that concerns the entire European Union, but we cannot rule out attempts to influence elections in the countries where voting is taking place. I am convinced that this could happen, which is why we must act in advance,” Tajani said in response to a question about possible Russian influence on the Italian vote.
He later added: “I do not rule out attempts by the Russian Federation to interfere in the democratic life of European Union countries, interfering in the free and democratic elections held in our countries and seeking to influence the will of the people through this reprehensible activity. That would be truly unacceptable.”
The minister stressed that Italy has already strengthened its defenses: since January 1, the Foreign Ministry has had a directorate-general for security, as well as 24-hour operations center that counters cyberattack, including those by Russian hackers targeting diplomatic missions and the ministry itself.
Italy’s parliamentary elections are expected in 2027 (the current parliament’s term expires in autumn 2027). Tajani separately noted that Italians “will not allow themselves to be conditioned,” but that “the attempt, unfortunately, will happen” — as part of hybrid warfare, including disinformation.
The statement came against the backdrop of German accusations against Moscow following a drone incident at Leipzig Airport, which Berlin described as an act of hybrid warfare.
The other deputy prime minister, League leader Matteo Salvini, reacted cautiously. He said he does not know whether Tajani has additional information and does not want to “insult the intelligence and freedom of choice of Italians,” who “have never voted under the influence of Russia, China, America, Israel or Palestine.” According to Salvini, he is concerned by “anti-Russian anxiety” in some European capitals.
Tajani also commented on a Financial Times article that described Roberto Vannacci, leader of the National Future party, as a possible “Trojan horse” of Russian influence. The minister said he hopes this is “absolutely false” and recalled that any such claims must be proven.
