Domestic Policy
Housing: Following the controversy over pensions, the majority is divided on the Fratelli d’Italia bill on condominiums, which introduces new obligations for administrators and allows creditors to claim against tenants in good standing in cases of non-payment. The League rejects the text, citing increased bureaucracy and costs for families. Fratelli d’Italia slows the process, describing it as a mere proposal to be discussed and emphasizing the need for dialogue. Forza Italia and Noi Moderati call for a lighter reform. The opposition criticizes the government for penalizing law-abiding citizens.
Turin: The dawn raid on the Askatasuna social centre in Turin marks a political turning point and deeply divides the left. After months of dialogue, Mayor Lo Russo adopts the government line, ending the cooperation agreement and asserting respect for the rule of law. Minister Piantedosi speaks of a signal against violence, while activists denounce political repression linked to pro-Palestinian mobilizations. Opposition parties accuse the government of double standards compared to other occupied spaces, such as CasaPound. According to investigators, Askatasuna may be involved in recent clashes and violent actions. Activists promise new protests and a sustained mobilization.
Foreign Policy
Ukraine: The European Council faces one of its most difficult meetings in recent years, with deep divisions over the use of frozen Russian assets to fund support for Ukraine. The issue emerges only in the evening, after other topics, while doubts persist from Belgium and other countries, along with opposition from Hungary and Slovakia. Zelensky and Tusk urge swift decisions, warning of strategic and military risks. The turning point comes from Germany, which is ready to use Russian assets, strengthening its alliance with Poland and increasing pressure on Brussels. However, legal, financial, and political concerns remain, particularly in Italy.
Mercosur: In Brussels, while European leaders discuss Ukraine, thousands of farmers protest against the EU-Mercosur free trade agreement, warning of risks to the agricultural and food sectors. Unions criticize the elimination of tariffs, the lack of reciprocity clauses, and insufficient safeguards on meat and health standards. Italy and France demand more guarantees, securing a postponement of the signing until January. Italy becomes the pivotal player between those, such as Germany and the Commission, pushing for the agreement, and those fearing repercussions for farmers, food sovereignty, and CAP funds.
Economy and Finance
European Central Bank: The European Central Bank concludes 2025 by keeping interest rates unchanged at 2% and confirms the end of the tightening cycle. The Governing Council unanimously chooses a new pause, with the next move likely to be an increase, contingent on macroeconomic data. Christine Lagarde reiterates the absence of a predefined path and a meeting-by-meeting approach. New forecasts indicate stronger growth in the eurozone and inflation nearing the target. However, risks linked to external shocks remain.
Budget Law: Debate over pensions divides the centre-right, with the League at odds with Minister Giorgetti and other allies. A Treasury amendment that would have reduced the university degree buyback and extended exit windows has been completely removed, leaving current regulations unchanged. The reform proposes increasing flexible exit windows from three to six months, resulting in a six-month period without salary or pension. The League strongly opposes this, threatening to withhold support for the budget package. Meanwhile, the pensions committee is stalled due to political tensions.