The Day Fire Came to Florence While Damascus Changed Masters

The morning began with confirmation of Damascus's fall to opposition forces, with Assad receiving asylum in Moscow. Regional powers positioned themselves for the transition, while EU countries began restricting Syrian asylum applications.

At 10:15, an explosion at ENI's Calenzano fuel depot near Florence dominated coverage. Initial reports of five injuries evolved throughout the day to two confirmed deaths, 26 injuries, and three missing workers. The blast prompted highway closures and train suspensions, while authorities distributed masks to residents.

Evening coverage revealed Credit Agricole's increased stake in Banco BPM, triggering political responses about foreign control of Italian banks. The government's economic planning shifted, with proposals for expanded flat tax brackets to 35,000€ and new corporate tax incentives for employment. Meanwhile, opposition to Musk's Starlink investment emerged along political lines, reflecting ongoing tensions over technological sovereignty.