Domestic Policy
Ukraine Decree: The Chamber approved the Ukraine decree following the government’s vote of confidence, with the three deputies from Vannacci opposing the measure but remaining loyal to the executive, marking the first fracture within the majority. Futuro Nazionale remains anchored within the centre-right perimeter while seeking dialogue both with extra-parliamentary right-wing forces and Mario Adinolfi to structure itself within the Mixed Group. Meanwhile, the opposition remains divided on the vote, missing the opportunity to capitalise on tensions within the majority.
Immigration Bill: The government has introduced a new immigration decree incorporating the EU Pact and strengthening tools to control migration flows, including the possibility of temporarily closing territorial waters and transferring intercepted migrants to third partner countries. The text tightens criminal penalties and expulsion procedures for irregular migrants, accelerating timelines and making appeals against repatriation non-suspensive. Reception rules are revised, alongside introducing integration obligations and enhanced controls on asylum seekers. Finally, border hotspots and accelerated procedures are strengthened, limiting mobile phone use in centres and reducing the risk of unauthorised departures.
Foreign Policy
Ukraine Conflict: In recent hours, Kyiv is considering holding elections and a peace referendum on 24 February under pressure from Washington, but Zelensky conditions any decision on concluding an agreement and restoring security. Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani also reiterated that any popular vote could occur only after an agreement with Moscow and following parliamentary discussion. Meanwhile, the EU has approved a €90 billion loan to support Ukraine’s financial needs in 2026–27.
Iran: The White House summit between Trump and Netanyahu placed the Iranian dossier at its core, amid Tehran’s diplomatic overtures on nuclear issues and persistent mistrust from Washington and Tel Aviv. The United States signals a preference for an agreement while simultaneously reinforcing its military posture in the region, while Israel insists on including ballistic missiles in any negotiations. In the background, Iran reaffirms it will not relinquish its missile capabilities while celebrating the Islamic Revolution, heightening regional tensions.
Economy and Finance
Utility Bill Decree: The energy decree remains under development, with technicians from the ministry led by Gilberto Pichetto Fratin and Palazzo Chigi grappling primarily with issues concerning the ETS and renewable energy incentives—crucial for achieving a €2–3 billion reduction in utility bills. Technical solutions still require refinement, while support measures already outlined appear more advanced, ranging from a €115 bonus for vulnerable households to reduced charges for low-voltage businesses. Also under consideration are interventions for gas-intensive industries, strengthening PPAs, and unlocking connections to the Terna grid.
EU Competitiveness: The EU is preparing to strengthen “European preference” to protect the single market, focusing on public procurement more oriented toward EU products and incentives tied to a minimum share of European production—particularly in green technologies. Ursula von der Leyen announced the Industrial Accelerator Act, while growing consensus emerges among governments—from Berlin to Paris—on targeted measures to safeguard strategic sectors. A significant portion of European industry also supports this shift, calling for trade diversification, cheaper energy, and greater production autonomy. Prime Minister Meloni’s three priorities: energy, automotive, and simplification.