Rome, Dec. 25 -- Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has warned her staff that 2026 will be "much worse" than 2025, citing economic challenges and global uncertainties.

Her statement comes as Italy faces high public debt, projected to rise to 137.4% of GDP in 2026, and ongoing debates over arms sales to Ukraine.

Meloni expressed her gratitude to her staff at Palazzo Chigi, acknowledged their hard work throughout the year, and advised them to rest during the holidays.

"We fight all year round. The year we've had has been tough for all of us. But don't worry, the next one will be much worse. So I advise you to rest properly during these holidays and we will see each other again in the next few days to continue to give feedback to this ...