The anti-Xylella operation is an EU-mandated measure that formed the basis for an Italian ministerial decree and subsequent interventions to chop the trees down, drawn up by former extraordinary commissioner in charge of containing Xylella, Giuseppe Silletti.
Silletti resigned his position in December after being placed under investigation along with nine others who may face charges of spreading a plant disease, malicious violation of environmental regulations, falsifying public documents, forgery, and destroying or damaging natural beauties.