In July 2020, there were no agreements to determine the percentages of the €750 billion Recovery Fund that would be given to specific European Union countries. The disbursement of the fund, which contributed more over €200 billion to Italy, was determined by an algorithm created by two senior Commission officials. The digital algorithm was based on parameters such as the number of Covid-19 victims and the economic impact of the pandemic. This was revealed in an interview with European Commissioner Paolo Gentiloni, which will appear in his next book. The disclosure mainly undermines former Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte's narrative, in which he has consistently claimed credit for securing "a lot of money" for Italy. In actuality, there was a negotiation, albeit a difficult one. However, the discussion focused on the distinction between grants and loans, as well as governance. The thrifty countries, led by the Netherlands, would have requested practically all loans, as well as the ability to preserve a final veto on the release of the various tranches, requiring a European Council agreement for each. The latter attempt was foiled by the determination and ability of Italian diplomacy.