Divided over Ukraine: Italian political tensions rise
Zeta Italy News: Military aid debate is fuelling tensions within the government. Prime Minister Meloni reaffirmed Italy’s support to Kyiv—stating that “Ukraine’s fate is linked to our own”. Deputy PM Salvini voiced unease over the alignment with Trump’s approach. Calenda criticized Europe’s division, arguing on X that “the point is not just the suspension of aid to Ukraine by Trump, it’s that Europe’s leaders still have very different ideas on how to proceed.”
Meloni: “A trade war doesn’t benefit even the U.S., I will tell Trump”
The Italian Prime Minister warned against the risks of a trade war in an interview for the XXI Secolo program. She emphasized the need to avoid economic conflicts that could harm both nations. Meloni’s remarks come amid concerns over potential new tariffs from the U.S., which could impact European industries. She reaffirmed Italy’s commitment to protecting its economic interests while seeking dialogue with America.
Mattarella in Tokyo: a rare imperial welcome at the emperor’s palace
On the second day of his official visit to Japan, the Italian President was received by Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako for a private luncheon at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo. The meeting, which followed strict ceremonial protocol, included a bilateral discussion between the president and the emperor, a significant gesture given Naruhito’s symbolic role as head of state.
Arrests in Milan’s nightlife scene
Stefania Nobile, daughter of famed televangelist Wanna Marchi, and her ex-partner Davide Lacerenza, owner of Milan’s upscale bar “La Gintoneria,” have been placed under house arrest by the Financial Police. Investigations suggest they facilitated drug distribution and prostitution services to select clientele, laundering the illicit proceeds through their establishment.
Tourist bus collision in Barcelona, Italians involved
A collision between two tourist buses in Barcelona Avinguda Diagonal resulted in 51 injuries, including four critical cases. The incident occurred when a bus carrying Italian students collided with another bus boarding cruise ship passengers. The critically injured include a minor and a pedestrian struck during the crash. An investigation into the accident’s cause is ongoing.
Elderly couple rescued after getting lost while foraging
A 96-year-old man and his 86-year-old wife were found in the countryside of Sardinia, near Muravera, as they were searching for wild asparagus. They had lost their way at night and called emergency services for help. The man had fallen into a drainage canal and was trapped. After hours of searching, both were found and brought to safety.
Sogei CEO under investigation: searches in progress
Cristiano Cannarsa, CEO of Sogei (an in-house company of the Ministry of Economy and Finance), has been accused by the Rome Prosecutor’s Office of attempted embezzlement as part of a large-scale probe that previously led to the arrest of former CEO Paolino Iorio. The latter was caught accepting a €15,000 bribe from a businessman. The Guardia di Finanza is currently conducting searches at Cannarsa’s residence and offices.
World Obesity Day: Italian children among Europe’s most at risk
Italy ranks second in Europe for childhood overweight rates (37% among 7-9-year-olds) and third for obesity (17%). Experts stress early intervention through diet, exercise, and medical treatment in severe cases. UNICEF Italy, with the contribution of the Italian National Institute of Health (ISS), has launched the publication Is the Weight Right? to raise awareness about childhood overweight and obesity.
San Marco bell tower in Venice reopens to the public
After extensive restoration work, the Campanile di San Marco has reopened to visitors, allowing them to enjoy panoramic views of the city and lagoon. The renovations included replacing the 70-year-old elevator, upgrading the electrical system, and cleaning the bronze sculptures, glass, and bells. The bell chamber is now fully visible, free from previous obstructions.
Juventus defeats Verona 2-0 in Serie A match
The team secured a 2-0 victory over Hellas Verona in their latest football fixture. The Bianconeri controlled the match, with goals sealing the win and keeping their title ambitions alive. Verona struggled to break through Juventus’ defense, failing to respond effectively. The result strengthens Juventus’ position in the league standings as they continue their push for the top spots.
