Russia may have prepared sabotage at US nuclear bomb base in Italy - Sky News
Photo: US military base in Aviano, Italy (Getty Images)
An investigation has begun in Italy into a potential Russian sabotage operation at the Aviano military base, where American troops with nuclear weapons are stationed, Sky News reports.
The media outlet noted that the Italian government was warned of a possible threat to the Aviano military base, which is used by the only US Air Force unit south of the Alps.
Aviano is also one of five bases in Europe where nuclear bombs are stored.
According to journalists, a suspected woman was stopped after she was instructed to photograph the air base. In addition, a series of forest fires was recorded around the military complex.
The investigation is ongoing, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has already been briefed on the incident.
What we know about Aviano military base
The US Air Force’s Aviano base is one of the key American military sites in Europe, located in northern Italy near the city of Pordenone, south of the Alps.
It is used by the US Air Force and NATO and serves as an important hub for operations in Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Middle East.
The base is home to the only US Air Force unit that provides support for F-16 fighter jets and other aircraft, including logistics and personnel training.
Aviano is one of five bases in Europe where US nuclear munitions are stored, making it strategically important for NATO.
The base was established after World War II and has become a key foothold for the US Air Force in Europe, serving as a site for exercises and combat training operations involving NATO countries.
Due to its strategic importance, Aviano has modern infrastructure for aircraft servicing, ammunition depots, and residential facilities for personnel, as well as a high level of security and control.
