Domestic Policy
Justice: The National Association of Magistrates is preparing to support the “No” campaign in the referendum on the Nordio-Meloni reform, which has been definitively approved in the Senate. While avoiding direct confrontation with the government, the Association aims to inform citizens about the risks of the reform, emphasizing that it will not address the structural problems of the Italian justice system. President Antonio Diella and academic Enrico Grosso are advocating for a broad, non-partisan debate involving civil society and the cultural world. Justice Minister Nordio responded that the reform was not designed to speed up trials, but to achieve other objectives.
Pozzolo Case: Deputy Emanuele Pozzolo has been sentenced by the Biella Court to one year and three months in prison, with the sentence suspended, for illegal possession of a collector’s firearm, related to a shooting incident during a New Year’s Eve party in Rosazza. He was acquitted of the charge of possessing war munitions, and the weapon, a mini-revolver “North American Arms”, was confiscated. The incident, in which Luca Campana was slightly injured, caused significant political uproar and led to Pozzolo’s expulsion from Fratelli d’Italia. The parliamentarian, who continues to claim innocence, has announced an appeal.
Foreign Policy
Venezuela: According to the Wall Street Journal, the United States has begun selecting military targets in Venezuela as part of an anti-narcotics operation, following the deployment of numerous warships in the Caribbean. Washington denies plans for an attack, but pressure on the government of Nicolás Maduro is increasing, including flights of bombers near the Venezuelan border. Caracas has denounced a psychological campaign aimed at weakening the country’s military and leadership. Meanwhile, Maduro has requested military support from Russia, China, and Iran to counter tensions with the United States.
Ukraine Conflict: The Pentagon has authorized the White House to supply Ukraine with long-range Tomahawk missiles, believing the operation would not compromise U.S. stockpiles, but the final decision rests with President Donald Trump, who has so far been reluctant to send such weapons. Tensions between Washington and Moscow remain high, especially after Trump suggested new nuclear tests, drawing condemnation from the UN. Meanwhile, the war in Ukraine continues with intense fighting in the Donbass region.
Economy and Finance
Intesa Sanpaolo: Intesa Sanpaolo reported a record net profit of €7.6 billion for the first nine months of the year, a 5.9% increase compared to 2024, with €2.4 billion in the third quarter alone. CEO Carlo Messina described the results as “the best ever,” highlighting the strength of commissions and insurance activities. The bank paid €4.6 billion in taxes and granted €42.7 billion in loans to Italian households and businesses. JP Morgan analysts deemed the results solid, thanks to higher commissions and lower-than-expected costs.
Pirelli: Industry Minister Adolfo Urso reiterated the government’s commitment to quickly resolving the deadlock over Pirelli’s governance between shareholders Camfin and Sinochem, assuring support from Palazzo Chigi for the group’s international development. During a visit to the Bicocca research center, Urso emphasized the strategic value of Pirelli’s Cyber Tyre technology for Made in Italy. No timeline was provided, but the minister expressed confidence in reaching an agreement before the board renewal scheduled for next summer.