Internal Politics
Referendum: The first public debate on the justice referendum took place in Palermo between Minister Carlo Nordio, a supporter of the Yes vote, and M5s leader Giuseppe Conte, who campaigned for the No vote. Nordio defended the reform, arguing that it strengthens the autonomy of public prosecutors and modernizes the system, while ruling out political consequences in the event of the referendum being rejected. Conte, on the other hand, accused the government of seeking to influence the judiciary and advancing a political agenda that limits its independence.
Ukraine Decree: The Senate approved the Ukraine Decree with a confidence vote, confirming the extension of authorization to send equipment and materials in support of Kyiv. The measure continues the government’s foreign policy line, which is oriented toward supporting Ukraine in coordination with Western allies. The vote highlighted some differences in position both within the majority and among the opposition, although without altering the final outcome. The decree also includes provisions prioritizing civil defence tools and aid to the population.
Foreign Policy
USA: In his State of the Union address, which lasted approximately one hour and forty minutes, Donald Trump described the United States as having entered a new «golden age», claiming achievements in the economy, immigration, tariffs, and foreign policy. The speech, marked by harsh tones toward the Democrats, triggered strong reactions and numerous fact-checks by the media, which downplayed or contested several figures cited by the president. Trump also defended mass deportations, his tariff policy, and called for more restrictive electoral rules, arguing for the need to strengthen national security.
Epstein Case: The scandal surrounding Jeffrey Epstein is back in the spotlight, with Hillary and Bill Clinton scheduled to testify before Congress, despite having consistently denied any wrongdoing. The affair has also had repercussions for other public figures, including Bill Gates, who apologized for his relationship with Epstein, and Larry Summers, who stepped down from his chair at Harvard University. According to the New York Times, new elements are emerging that may also involve Donald Trump, contributing to maintaining high attention on the case.
Economy and Finance
Labour: The Milan Public Prosecutor’s Office has ordered urgent judicial oversight of Deliveroo Italy as part of an investigation into alleged illegal recruitment practices involving approximately 3,000 riders in Milan and up to 20,000 across Italy. According to the prosecution, the company allegedly resorted to exploited labour, with very low pay compared to the poverty threshold, suggesting management non-compliant with labour regulations. The company’s sole director, Andrea Giuseppe Zocchi, is also under investigation.
Leonardo: Leonardo closed 2025 with preliminary growth results, recording revenues of €19.5 billion, an increase of 9.8% compared to the previous year, with growth across all major sectors. EBITA reached €1.752 billion, marking a 14.9% improvement and surpassing internal expectations. The company attributed the results to the robustness of its industrial plan and sustained growth in its activities. Chief Executive Roberto Cingolani also announced the intention to further increase the dividend for investors.