Meloni Faces Scrutiny Over Trump’s Post on Potential EU Break

Rome: Opposition politicians are pressing Premier Giorgia Meloni for clarity on Italy’s foreign policy stance following US President Donald Trump’s repost of a tweet suggesting Italy might diverge from the European Union to forge a direct trade agreement with the United States and possibly reduce its support for Kyiv.

According to Ansa News Agency, Trump shared a post from his Truth social media platform that highlighted Italy’s potential move to negotiate independently with the US. The message, originally posted by a user named LynneP on X, praised Premier Meloni for allegedly defying the EU and considering a direct trade deal with the US. The post included a video that speculated on Italy’s intentions to “scale back” its support for Ukraine amidst its conflict with Russia.

Chiara Braga, a prominent figure in the centre-left Democratic Party (PD) and the Lower House whip, was among the opposition voices demanding Premier Meloni’s explanation. She questioned the truth behind Italy’s rumored negotiations on
pasta duties with the US and its alleged interest in reducing support for Ukraine. Braga emphasized that Trump’s statements leave little ambiguity and insisted that Meloni clarify Italy’s position regarding its allegiance to the EU and its political values.

In addition to the tweet, Trump shared a 21-second video of Meloni, recorded for the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF). In the message, Meloni expressed gratitude to Trump for reinstating Columbus Day, criticizing ‘woke culture’ for allegedly attempting to divide society and undermine shared traditions.