Domestic Politics
Justice Referendum: Controversy has erupted following statements by Naples prosecutor Nicola Gratteri, who, during the debate on the justice referendum, claimed that those voting ‘yes’ would be “investigated individuals and centres of power,” triggering a unified backlash from the centre-right and Justice Minister Carlo Nordio. Government and majority figures have described his words as offensive, even discussing disciplinary actions, while the opposing side has defended the magistrate and urged against politicising his remarks.
Futuro Nazionale: General Roberto Vannacci has announced a package of security proposals deemed more impactful than the government’s measures, including further protections for law enforcement, and is preparing initiatives on family and “remigration,” a central theme of his political agenda. The leader of Futuro Nazionale, while remaining within the centre-right spectrum, has stated he would be ready to run independently in the 2027 elections if excluded from the coalition led by Giorgia Meloni, Matteo Salvini, and Antonio Tajani. Meanwhile, the movement has launched membership drives and recorded new sign-ups, including local administrators from other parties.
Foreign Policy
USA: Growing tensions are emerging within the Republican Party over trade policy, polling, and immigration management, with potential repercussions on internal party dynamics. Six Republican congressmen have joined Democrats in the House to block tariffs imposed by Donald Trump on Canadian goods, marking a rift in the party ahead of the Supreme Court’s ruling on the legality of the tariffs. On immigration, the ICE’s special operation in Minneapolis has concluded after weeks of tensions and protests.
UN: France and Germany have called for the resignation of UN Special Rapporteur on Palestinian Territories Francesca Albanese, accused of describing Israel as a “common enemy of humanity,” a statement she denies. Berlin and Paris have announced formal actions at the Human Rights Council, while the spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres clarified that the assessment rests with member states. In Italy, the government has not formally demanded her resignation, but Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani has distanced himself, deeming her positions inappropriate for her role.
Economy and Finance
EU Competitiveness: At the informal summit of the 27 EU leaders in Alden Biesen, a convergence was noted on the need to strengthen European competitiveness, but divisions remain over funding instruments, particularly regarding eurobonds. European Council President Antonio Costa emphasised private investment, while Ursula von der Leyen promised regulatory simplifications, along with initiatives on the internal market and the “28th regime.” The discussion, enriched by contributions from Mario Draghi and Enrico Letta, also covered savings union, mergers to create “European champions,” and European preference in public procurement, with possible exemptions for reliable partners. On energy, the issue of the ETS remains unresolved, defended by the Commission and France but subject to calls for revision, while a targeted package to reduce costs and strategic dependencies is being considered.
Energy Decree: The energy bill, set to be presented to the Council of Ministers, includes an extraordinary contribution of €90 for households already receiving the social electricity bonus, and from 2026, bill discounts for those with an Isee below €25,000, according to procedures to be defined by ARERA. The measure introduces support measures for energy-intensive businesses and SMEs, including reduced gas transportation charges, interventions on the price differential with Amsterdam, and a platform for long-term contracts with public guarantees.