Tens of thousands of Italians gathered in central Rome on Saturday, waving European Union flags in a show of unity as debate intensifies over the EU’s push for increased defense spending.

The rally, backed by most center-left opposition parties despite their differing stances, was initiated by Italian journalist Michele Serra. His call for action came in late February through an editorial in La Repubblica titled “Let’s say something European.”

“My goal was to organize a major demonstration of citizens in support of Europe—its unity and its freedoms—without party banners, only European flags,” Serra said, coining the slogan: “Here we make Europe, or we die.”

The movement emerged as a response to escalating tensions between the U.S. and Europe, exacerbated by U.S. President Donald Trump’s policies, which have widened divisions over the war in Ukraine and trade disputes.

Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni has reluctantly backed an EU proposal to bolster European defense capabilities, a plan spearheaded by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. However, she has expressed concerns about its potential impact on Italy’s already massive debt, fearing that increased military spending could divert crucial funds from other national priorities.

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The EU’s rearmament plan aims to raise approximately 800 billion euros over four years, primarily through increased defense and security expenditures by member states.

Meloni has been vocal in challenging the wording of the proposal, arguing that “rearmament” is misleading. Instead, she has urged European leaders to focus on broader security and defense cooperation.

Saturday’s demonstration packed Rome’s Piazza del Popolo with an estimated 30,000 people. Organizers described it as a rare moment of unity, bringing together Italians from different political backgrounds under the common cause of defending democracy.

“We are here to protect freedom and democracy,” said participant Daniela Condotto. “These are values we’ve enjoyed for over 80 years, but they must not be taken for granted. They need to be defended.”

Meloni’s right-wing government allies largely ignored the demonstration, siding with her cautious approach toward the EU plan.

Foreign Minister and Vice Premier Antonio Tajani dismissed the protest as symbolic, stating, “Support for Europe is necessary, but it must come with real reforms, not just public displays.”

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Meanwhile, Vice Premier Matteo Salvini, leader of the euroskeptic League party, openly criticized the rally. “While some wave flags, we work to change Europe—a Europe that burdens workers, farmers, and entrepreneurs with senseless regulations,” he said.

Source: With input from agency