Press Review of Thursday, February 5, 2026

Domestic Policy

Security: The government is preparing to approve the security package in the Council of Ministers, including key measures such as preventive detention and legal immunity, supported by Interior Minister Piantedosi. The text has been revised following observations by President Sergio Mattarella. Meanwhile, in the Senate, Piantedosi defended the handling of the Turin clashes, rejecting accusations of unpreparedness or political instrumentalisation.

Vannacci: In Modena, General Roberto Vannacci presented his concept of “remigration” to a packed audience, defending the idea and rejecting accusations of extremism. The MEP, recently departed from the League and founder of Futuro Nazionale, accused Salvini’s party of inconsistency, reaffirming he will not relinquish his European seat. He positioned his new movement as the “natural” interlocutor for the right, while criticising its contradictions.

Foreign Policy

USA: The Trump administration announced the immediate withdrawal of approximately 700 federal agents from Minnesota, while maintaining a strong presence of ICE and border forces in Minneapolis engaged in anti-immigration operations. Border policy chief Tom Homan justified the decision citing cooperation with local sheriffs, while tensions persist with the mayor and governor, who demand the agents’ withdrawal. Despite protests and tensions, the White House reiterated that operations will continue nationwide in line with promises of mass deportations.

Ukraine Conflict: In Abu Dhabi, the first round of talks between Ukraine and Russia, mediated by the United States, has begun, described by Kyiv as “substantial and productive,” while Zelensky announced an upcoming prisoner exchange. However, fighting continues on the ground: in Druzhkivka, Donetsk, a Russian cluster munition attack killed at least seven and injured eight. Politically, tensions remain high between Moscow and NATO, while the EU has reached an agreement on a €90 billion guaranteed loan to support Ukraine.

Economy and Finance

Inflation: In January 2026, inflation slowed to 1%, returning to levels seen at the end of 2024, although monthly prices continue to rise by 0.4%. Istat updated the consumer basket by adding eight new items reflecting changes in household consumption, while the “shopping basket” continues to grow, albeit at a slower pace (+2.1%). Confcommercio considers price dynamics under control and in line with the more moderate performance of the euro area.

Labour: The Council of Ministers is examining a decree implementing the EU directive on pay transparency, granting workers the right to receive written information on average salary levels by gender and requiring salary ranges to be included in job advertisements. Presented by Minister Marina Calderone, the text extends these rules to nearly all employment types, strengthens objective and neutral criteria in collective agreements, and guarantees access to the criteria used to determine salaries and career progression. Companies with over 100 employees will be required to submit annual reports on the gender pay gap, with corrective measures mandated in cases of unjustified disparities.