(MENAFN) Italy’s top military officer, Gen. Luciano Portolano, cautioned on Wednesday that Russia is rapidly restoring its military capabilities, progressing at a pace quicker than originally forecast.

This development has sparked pressing demands to enhance the deterrence mechanisms of both NATO and the European Union.

During a session before the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committees of the Italian Parliament, Gen. Portolano remarked, "Moscow is rebuilding its lost military capabilities and is growing militarily at a faster rate than expected," as reported by an Italian state-operated broadcaster.

He further stated, "At the moment, there are no signs that suggest a reconversion of the Russian military industry to civilian purposes, even in the event of a ceasefire."

His comments highlighted the continued focus of Russia's industrial resources on defense production, despite the possibility of a temporary halt in hostilities.

Portolano stressed the urgent need to reinforce deterrent strategies in response to an increasingly unstable global environment, which poses significant challenges for both NATO and the EU.

He underscored that the current security climate requires vigilant and proactive measures.

He also advocated for deeper international collaboration, not only within existing alliances but also with nations outside the usual security frameworks.

This broader cooperation, he suggested, is vital to preserving worldwide peace and balance.

In addition, Portolano presented six major goals from Italy’s updated national military strategy, recently delivered to Defense Minister Guido Crosetto.

He explained that Italy’s armed forces are undergoing a comprehensive, long-term transformation aimed at making them more advanced, streamlined, and capable of conducting operations across multiple domains.

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