Domestic Policy
Luca Ciriani: In an interview with La Stampa, the Minister for Relations with Parliament, Luca Ciriani, emphasised that “the Senate has had the opportunity to intervene, significantly revising, correcting and amending the Budget Law.” Regarding the reform of the Court of Auditors, he clarified that it represents “a change in approach, shifting from a punitive logic to one of prevention and collaboration, particularly with smaller municipalities.” Ciriani views the referendum on justice as “an opportunity to better explain the reasons for voting ‘Yes’,” denying that the reform aims to make the judiciary subordinate to politics. Finally, he stated that the priority reforms are the prime ministership and differentiated autonomy, while on the electoral law, he called on all political forces to collaborate to ensure stability and governability.
Justice: The number of suspects in the Genoa prosecutor’s investigation into a suspected network that allegedly collected funds for Palestine, diverting part of them to Hamas, has risen to twenty-five. The investigation, involving left-wing circles and pro-Palestinian activists, has led to searches, seizures exceeding one million euros, and the discovery of material deemed celebratory of Hamas. At the centre of the probe is the NGO Abssp, led by Mohamed Hannoun, who has previously been under investigation. The case also relies on documents provided by Israeli authorities, a point contested by the defence.
Referendum: Today, the Council of Ministers is evaluating the date for the referendum on justice. The government favours a swift timeline to reduce the risks of a prolonged campaign, but there are obstacles: the collection of signatures for an alternative wording of the question has already begun and has surpassed 60,000, making any acceleration delicate. Preventing this could expose the executive to legal challenges and tensions with the Quirinale, which in the past has discouraged similar moves to avoid undermining democratic integrity.
Foreign Policy
Ukraine: Following his meeting with Zelensky at Mar-a-Lago, where the Ukrainian president presented a peace plan 90% complete, and a subsequent phone call with Vladimir Putin, Donald Trump stated that Ukraine and Russia are closer to a peace agreement, although no signing is expected in the near future, acknowledging unresolved issues such as the Donbass. Ursula von der Leyen, present at the meeting via videoconference with other European leaders, noted progress and Europe’s willingness to cooperate. Giorgia Meloni also spoke of forward steps, reaffirming Western unity and the protection of European interests, while Antonio Tajani highlighted Europe’s decisive role and the need for a just and secure peace for Kyiv and the Union.
Foreign Affairs: In an interview with Corriere della Sera, Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani reaffirmed Italy’s international commitment and supported the US peace initiative in Ukraine: “Every step forward towards a just and lasting peace is a positive development,” and added that he hopes “Putin truly wants the end of the conflict.” The minister defended the decree on aid, describing it as “absolutely balanced,” and reiterated that supporting Kyiv is “a battle for freedom.” In response to calls for change within Forza Italia, Tajani stated that it is “a liberal party with democratic rules” and that “what matters are the contents.”
Economy and Finance
Budget Law: The 22-billion-euro fiscal package is nearing completion, with an agreement reached between the majority parties and a confidence vote expected today. The government aims to exit the excessive deficit procedure by 2026, facing sacrifices and tensions. Confindustria and Confcommercio expressed satisfaction with the support for industry and businesses, while Coldiretti welcomed the simplifications for agriculture. However, the banking sector, telecommunications, and consumers have criticised certain tax measures, including levies on packages and short-term rentals.