Domestic Politics
Lega: In an article published in Il Foglio, Luca Zaia proposes a five-point manifesto for a “liberal right,” highlighting autonomy, foreign policy, security, youth policies, and freedoms on ethical and civil rights issues as key pillars for renewing the centre-right. While acknowledging the stability and strengthened international profile of the Meloni government, Zaia calls for a vision capable of looking toward the future. His positions, considered progressive by some, have sparked internal divisions within the League. Zaia links security to the presence of the state, criticises the prison system, and advocates for an inclusive and pragmatic model of integration.
Justice: As the referendum on justice approaches, political and symbolic tensions are escalating. The Union of Italian Catholic Lawyers of Trani is promoting the “No” campaign even in ecclesiastical venues, drawing criticism within the Catholic world for using sacred spaces for political purposes. The controversy extends to the campaign by the National Association of Magistrates, which the centre-right accuses of spreading misleading messages against the reform on the separation of judicial careers. Forza Italia, the League, and Antonio Di Pietro contest the content of the campaign materials, while the “No” side defends them. Meanwhile, the centre-left has officially launched its referendum mobilisation.
Foreign Policy
Venezuela: Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro appeared in chains before the Manhattan Court, accused by the United States of narcoterrorism, drug trafficking, and use of weapons of war. Declaring himself innocent and a prisoner of war, he asserted his political legitimacy. Washington has reaffirmed its control over Venezuela, while the United Nations has expressed serious concern over the violation of international law. Europe and Italy have avoided explicitly condemning the US operation, while stressing the illegitimacy of Maduro. Russia has labelled the American action a crime.
Greenland: Tensions are rising between the United States and Denmark after Donald Trump reiterated his intention to acquire Greenland, due to its strategic location and mineral wealth. Greenland’s Prime Minister, Jens Fredrik Nielsen, firmly rejected pressure and threats, reaffirming openness to dialogue but rejecting any possibility of annexation. The European Union has defended the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Greenland and Denmark, invoking the UN Charter and clearly distinguishing this case from that of Venezuela, highlighting Denmark’s NATO membership.
Economy and Finance
Mercosur: Italy says it is ready to give the green light to the signing of the EU-Mercosur agreement, strongly urged by the industrial sector, on the condition that concrete guarantees are provided regarding the principle of “reciprocity.” This means that imported agricultural products must comply with the same standards as those applied to European goods. Progress in negotiations between Rome and the European Commission, first reported by Bloomberg and later confirmed by a European executive spokesperson, is expected to be formalised tomorrow by Minister Francesco Lollobrigida during the meeting of Agriculture Ministers in Brussels.
Fuels: The price of petrol continues to fall, reaching €1.65 per litre—the lowest level since 2021—and has dropped below that of diesel, which stands at €1.67. The gap is attributed to the realignment of excise duties introduced on 1 January, which reduced taxation on petrol and increased it on diesel, in line with European decarbonisation goals. The Ministry for Enterprises rules out speculative effects and highlights the effectiveness of controls. Regional disparities persist, with diesel more expensive in mountainous areas, while the market has absorbed the reform without distortions.