Italian Senate Considers Bill to Transfer Fishing Nets to Protect Ukraine from Russian Drones
The Italian Senate has recently introduced a bill aimed at creating a state mechanism for transferring unused fishing nets to protect Ukraine from threats posed by Russian drones. This initiative has garnered support from numerous Italian politicians, including Silvia Fregolent, who actively participated in an event dedicated to this topic.
In a significant move to bolster Ukraine's defense against Russian aggression, the Italian Senate has recently presented a bill that seeks to establish a state mechanism for the transfer of unused fishing nets. These nets, no longer in use, are proposed as a resource to help protect Ukraine from the threats posed by Russian drones. The initiative has received backing from a wide array of Italian politicians, with Silvia Fregolent standing out for her active involvement in discussions surrounding this important issue.
During a press conference, Dmytro Shchukin, the president of the Network of Associations in Support of Ukraine (NAU), emphasized the critical importance of this bill for Ukraine's defense efforts. The proposed legislation allows for the voluntary transfer of decommissioned fishing nets by businesses, thereby supporting Ukraine's capacity to defend itself against its aggressor.
The bill outlines key provisions detailing the mechanism for the transfer of nets. Senator Ivan Skalforotto highlighted the significance of this initiative, pointing out that inexpensive Russian drones pose a serious threat to security, yet can be effectively countered using fishing nets. He also stressed that nets have a long history of use for protective purposes, and their application in this context could prove to be exceptionally effective.
Skalforotto noted that the bill creates a system of incentives for fishing enterprises that voluntarily contribute their nets for drone defense. These businesses will also receive benefits and exemptions from disposal costs, making this initiative advantageous for them.
Dmytro Shchukin further underscored that fishing nets could become an essential resource for protecting the civilian population in Ukraine. He remarked that similar measures have already been successfully implemented in Ukraine, helping to reduce the risks of drone attacks on innocent civilians.
Interestingly, as early as July 2025, The New York Times published an article discussing the use of fishing nets in Ukraine to combat Russian drones. The nets are stretched over roads at the front lines, checkpoints, and artillery positions, effectively reducing the risk of drone strikes.
Russian drones can become entangled in the nets' propellers and get stuck, providing a straightforward yet effective countermeasure against drones that fly at high speeds and can strike far behind the front lines. The aggressor country actively employs drones that are immune to electronic warfare measures, and nets remain one of the few methods to 'catch' these unmanned aerial vehicles before they reach their targets.
Thus, the initiative by Italian politicians to transfer fishing nets for the protection of Ukraine from Russian drones may represent a crucial step in strengthening the defense capabilities of a nation that continues to fight against aggression from Russia.