Italy: Italy is preparing a 13th military aid package for Ukraine that is expected to be presented to a parliamentary intelligence committee in early September, local media reported Thursday. This development comes amidst ongoing deliberations within the Italian government regarding the provision of military support to Kyiv.

According to Anadolu Agency, the package had been ready since July, and members of the Parliamentary Committee for the Security of the Republic (COPASIR) were initially alerted about a possible meeting on Aug. 5. However, the meeting was postponed due to concerns within Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's government about public support and growing opposition from right-wing political groups to further arms deliveries to Ukraine.

Although the contents of Italy's military aid packages have remained classified since the start of the Russia-Ukraine war, the latest package reportedly focuses on bolstering Ukraine's air defenses. It includes anti-aircraft systems and radar, and Rome and Paris have agreed to grant Ukraine a license to produce the Aster 30 B1NT, an advanced interceptor missile used against ballistic and aerial threats.

Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto has been working closely with French and British officials to enhance Ukraine's missile capabilities. Despite these preparations for new military assistance, Rome has recently emphasized its humanitarian and civilian support for Ukraine, particularly ahead of winter.

Following a meeting of Ukraine's allies on Monday, Meloni's office stated that Italy would continue providing generators to bolster hospitals, schools, and energy infrastructure. The government has made little public reference to military supplies, even as France and the UK announced additional deliveries of Storm Shadow and SCALP cruise missiles.

Meloni and Crosetto reportedly reviewed the package again Wednesday, and it is anticipated to be submitted to COPASIR in early September.