In the Italian Senate, lawmakers have introduced a bill to establish a state mechanism for transferring retired fishing nets to Ukraine, where they can be used to protect civilian areas from Russian drone attacks.
The initiative was presented by Senator Ivan Scalfarotto and supported by other Italian politicians, including Senator Silvia Fregolent. Dmytro Shchukin, president of the Network of Associations for Ukraine (NAU), attended the presentation and emphasized the potential life-saving impact of the measure.
“This bill is an example of how a simple solution can save lives. In Ukraine, fishing nets are already being used to shield civilians from drones. The Italian initiative creates a formal process encouraging companies to donate retired nets instead of discarding them,” Shchukin said.
The proposal has drawn attention for its practical approach to strengthening Ukraine’s resilience against drone attacks, particularly in cities near the front lines. Anna Gordon, president of the Italo-Ukrainian Association UaMI (Associazione dei giovani italo-ucraini in Italia), highlighted the real danger faced by Ukrainian families, showing fragments of a Shahed drone that fell near her father’s home as a reminder of the ongoing threat.
During the press conference, Shchukin stressed the dual benefit of the initiative:
"Italian companies can reduce disposal costs and gain incentives, while Ukraine gains crucial resources to protect civilians. In cities like Kherson, many streets are already shielded with nets, improving daily safety and saving lives."
However, numerous other towns near active conflict zones remain in urgent need of similar protection.
“This initiative sends a clear message: Italy’s national interests and solidarity with Ukraine can go hand in hand,” Shchukin said, expressing hope that the bill will receive full support and practical implementation.
If enacted, the law could set a precedent for other European countries to contribute civil resources to Ukraine’s defense efforts, creating a new model for international support in wartime situations.
