14.06.2026 18:40
In Italy, former general Roberto Vannacci has essentially declared war on Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni by founding the new far-right party Futuro Nazionale. The former general, who is rapidly rising in polls and stands out with his anti-EU stance and promise to "repatriate" migrants, is poised to become the most ambitious and dangerous actor in next year's elections.
Former General Roberto Vannacci in Italy has officially founded his new far-right party, "Futuro Nazionale" (National Future), openly challenging Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. The 57-year-old former general, introduced to his congress supporters as the "Julius Caesar of modern times," is preparing to disrupt Meloni's power calculations for next year's elections.
A DANGEROUS RIVAL TO MELONI'S RIGHT
Vannacci, who left Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini's League Party four months ago, has declared a tougher and more radical nationalist line. The new movement, quickly reaching nearly 5% support in polls, poses a serious threat to Meloni.
Vannacci's pro-Russia, anti-European Union stance and close ties with Germany's far-right AfD complicate a possible right-wing alliance, as Meloni fears losing centrist voters.
"WE DON'T HAVE AN IMMIGRATION PROGRAM, WE HAVE A RE-EMIGRATION PROGRAM!"
Aiming to reduce the foreign population in the country from 12% to 4%, Vannacci drew loud applause from the hall with his promise to send migrants back.
MELONI'S FORMER PROMISES TURNED INTO HIS ELECTION MATERIAL
Vannacci accused Prime Minister Meloni of failing to keep her election promises, adopting the radical policies Meloni advocated while in opposition into his own platform. Here are Futuro Nazionale's notable economic and social promises:
Euro to Be Debated: A review of Italy's membership in the euro currency is demanded.
Rejection of Green Deal: Abandoning the EU's Green Deal program aimed at reducing carbon emissions is advocated.
Nuclear Energy Returns: Ending the ban on nuclear energy in the country is planned.
Tax Cuts for Families: Significant tax exemptions and incentives are envisioned for families with children.
"ZERO TOLERANCE" IN SECURITY AND NEW PRISONS
Despite Italy being one of the countries with the lowest crime rates in the world, the former general's top priority was security. Vannacci stated that zero tolerance would be applied to criminals and promised to build more prisons.
Accusing Meloni of being disconnected from reality, the former general challenged her with military rhetoric, saying, "No plan remains the same after the first shot in a war. It must be adapted to reality."