Fact Check: Italian Defense Minister Declares NATO Has No Reason to Exist
What We Know
On June 20, 2025, Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto made a significant statement regarding NATO, asserting that the alliance "no longer has a reason to exist" in its current form. This declaration was made during a conference in Padua and was reported by multiple news outlets, including Politico and ANSA. Crosetto emphasized that the geopolitical landscape has changed dramatically, stating, "Before, U.S. and Europe used to be the center of the world — now, there is everything else with which a relationship must be built" (source-2). He further criticized NATO's effectiveness in fulfilling its original mission of ensuring peace and mutual defense, suggesting that it must evolve to engage with the Global South to remain relevant (source-2).
Crosetto's comments come at a time when NATO is preparing for a summit where discussions about increased defense spending are expected. Despite his critical remarks, the Italian government has historically supported NATO, and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni reaffirmed Italy's commitment to the alliance shortly before Crosetto's statements (source-2).
Analysis
Crosetto's assertion raises important questions about NATO's role in contemporary global politics. His comments reflect a growing sentiment among some European leaders that NATO must adapt to a multipolar world where power dynamics have shifted away from the traditional U.S.-Europe axis. This perspective is echoed by other analysts who argue that NATO's original purpose, primarily focused on deterring Soviet aggression, may no longer be applicable in the current geopolitical climate (source-3).
However, the reliability of Crosetto's statements can be assessed through the lens of his position and the political context in which they were made. As the Italian Defense Minister, Crosetto's views may reflect broader governmental concerns about NATO's future and Italy's role within it. His remarks come amid increasing calls for a reevaluation of defense strategies in light of rising global tensions, particularly with Russia's actions in Ukraine (source-2).
Critically, while Crosetto's comments have been reported widely, they also face pushback from other NATO member states that view the alliance as essential for collective security, especially in the face of threats from Russia (source-2). This divergence in views highlights the complexity of NATO's current situation and the differing perspectives among its members regarding its future.
Conclusion
The claim that Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto declared NATO has no reason to exist is True. His statements reflect a significant critique of NATO's current relevance and effectiveness, emphasizing the need for the alliance to adapt to new global realities. While his views may not represent a consensus among all NATO members, they underscore a critical conversation about the future of international security and cooperation.
