Giorgia Meloni’s love-in with Donald Trump confidant Elon Musk looks like it might be paying off, with reports suggesting that her government is poised to sign a $1.56 billion telecommunications deal with Musk’s SpaceX.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni denied Thursday talking to Elon Musk about a cybersecurity deal with the American billionaire's SpaceX company following reports that sparked controversy in Italy.

Italy’s Premier Giorgia Meloni said her government is in talks with private companies, including Elon Musk’s SpaceX, over the country’s telecoms security system, but denied having discussed the issue privately with Musk.

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.

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 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 said on Jan. 9 that she has not talked personally with Elon Musk about a deal with SpaceX.

Handing control of Italy’s military satellite communications to the U.S. tech tycoon has prompted sharp criticism in Italy from opposition politicians.