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Italy under Prime Minister Meloni drives economic and diplomatic initiatives—Ferrari's electric car launch and a strategic partnership with India—while security concerns mount from a mafia bust, a contractor killed in Ukraine, and a drone incident involving Russia. Spain sees mass protests demanding Prime Minister Sanchez's resignation, and Malta's Labour Party wins a historic fourth term.
May 2026
Week of May 18, compared to 12-week average
Top sources covering Southern Europe
supportive and promotional
Italy's economy shows modest growth but high debt, with IMF projecting 0.5% GDP growth until 2027. Ferrari's electric car launch caused a stock plunge followed by partial recovery, while Meloni announced a framework for nuclear power resumption. Cyprus faces rising construction costs and broader economic challenges.
Italy strengthens ties with India through a strategic partnership and Modi's visit, while US Secretary Rubio meets Meloni and the Pope amid Trump tensions. Malta's Labour Party wins a fourth term, and a League lawmaker is suspended for evoking a fascist slogan.
Italy busts a money-laundering ring tied to mafia boss Messina Denaro and condemns Russia after a drone hits a Romanian building. An Italian contractor is killed in Ukraine, and a shooting in southern Spain leaves two dead.
Mass protests in Madrid demand Prime Minister Sanchez's resignation, with tens of thousands marching twice in a week. Italy bans Kanye West and Travis Scott concerts over security concerns, and a heatwave breaks May temperature records in Portugal.