Italian opposition leaders roundly criticized Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government for engaging in talks with Elon Musk’s SpaceX on a €1.5 billion ($1.6 billion) deal for encrypted communications systems.

Elon Musk is close to further solidifying his ties with Europe’s right-wing political class as his SpaceX group nears a historic deal with the Italian government to provide security services to the public sector,

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni defended Elon Musk's growing involvement in politics on Thursday and said she had never discussed with him a potential deal to supply secure communications to Italy.

Italy’s prime minister accused of currying favour with world’s richest man at expense of European satellite initiative

Italian Prime Minister Georgia Meloni did not discuss Rome's talks with Elon Musk's SpaceX over the possible supply of its Starlink services during her weekend visit to the United States, the PM's office said.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni defended Elon Musk’s political involvement, dismissing interference concerns. Meloni denied discussing any secure communication deals with Musk, highlighting foreign investments decided on national interest.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni denies discussing a deal with Elon Musk to use Starlink for secure military communications. As Italy evaluates SpaceX's system against the delayed EU IRIS2 project,

I am not aware of Elon Musk financing parties, associations or political exponents around the world, said Giorgia Meloni, adding that George Soros does this.

Elon Musk said on Monday he was ready to provide Italy with secure communication services after Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni denied that the issue had come up during a weekend visit to the United States.

Italy's Premier Giorgia Meloni confirmed discussions with SpaceX for Italy's telecom security, amidst controversy. Meloni denied a private deal with Musk, stressing national interests. SpaceX could provide encryption services for Italy's military and emergency communications if a deal is reached.

ROME (Reuters) - Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said on Thursday she had never discussed with Elon Musk a potential deal to use his Starlink to supply secure communications for the military.