ROME – Following an unexpected rapport with U.S. President Joe Biden, Italy’s right-wing Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is set to build a stronger connection with President-elect Donald Trump. This evolving relationship positions her as a vital communicator between the United States and Europe.
In the weeks leading up to Trump’s presidential inauguration, Meloni visited him at his Mar-a-Lago estate, describing the experience as exceeding her expectations. She noted that the encounter served as a way to reaffirm a robust relationship that seems poised for longevity, although she refrained from calling it “privileged.” Meloni believes that a robust trans-Atlantic alliance between their conservative administrations could provide significant benefits not only for Italy but for Europe as a whole.
Nonetheless, opinions differ on the potential impacts of this alliance. Some analysts suggest Meloni may play the role of a significant influence—or “whisperer”—for Trump in Europe, while others fear she could act as a Trojan horse promoting Trump’s agenda. Political science expert Franco Pavoncello pointed out that Meloni stands out in European politics, especially given the limited options Trump has if he seeks a reliable contact on the continent.
Displaying a sense of stability, Meloni’s government is notably more stable compared to other major European and G-7 allies, a significant shift in a country often marked by political volatility. Her conservative Brothers of Italy party, which has shifted from an extreme right to a more mainstream approach—especially concerning foreign policy—has gained traction since a strong showing in the previous EU elections. Meloni’s trip to Florida coincided with her government’s efforts to uplift an Italian journalist detained in Iran, which culminated in a successful diplomatic maneuver that was celebrated shortly after her return.
Elon Musk acknowledged a minor role in the journalist’s release but stated he had no direct interactions with Iran. Regardless of Musk’s involvement, Meloni’s defense minister remarked that her presence with Trump served to bolster her credibility at a crucial moment for Italy.
On ideological grounds, Meloni and Trump align closely. She has made migration a focal point of her government, advocating for agreements with African nations to reduce origination of migrants and rigorously vetting asylum seekers. Furthermore, her administration has embraced conservative family policies, including banning surrogacy and implementing measures to reduce abortions.
The personal rapport between Meloni and Trump appears promising as they were seen engaging during an event for the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral, which ultimately led to her visit to Mar-a-Lago. Meloni is among a select number of world leaders expected to attend Trump’s inauguration, a signal of her commitment to the U.S. administration.
Interestingly, Meloni also maintains a robust relationship with Biden, who initially viewed her election as emblematic of a conservative shift globally. However, her strong support for Ukraine during the Russian invasion and her willingness to reconsider Italy’s involvement in China’s Belt and Road Initiative allayed some of Biden’s initial concerns. The two have met multiple times in Washington, a rare occurrence for an Italian leader who has only been in office for two years.
Despite their established friendship, Meloni may face challenges with Trump’s foreign policy approach, especially concerning NATO. Trump has pushed for increased financial commitments from NATO members, a demand Italy has yet to meet fully. Experts predict that navigating the complexities of the Trump administration could place Meloni in a precarious position, particularly regarding issues like Ukraine.
Meloni has already addressed Trump’s controversial remarks by framing them as mere deterrent has rather than aggressive tactics. Additionally, Trump’s proposed tariffs could pose significant challenges for Italy’s export-driven economy. Analysts have estimated these could cost Italy around $7 billion, affecting its substantial trade surplus with the U.S.
Ultimately, analysts maintain that Meloni’s staunch nationalism will prioritize Italian interests, which may spur gains for the nation but could potentially undermine European unity in the long term. Already, a reported collaboration with Musk’s SpaceX may jeopardize Europe’s efforts to establish its own satellite communication system. Critics argue that the current trajectory suggests Meloni might prioritize her allegiance to Trump over broader EU considerations, reinforcing concerns over her role as a representative of Italian interests within the European framework.
