Opposition Parties Criticize Meloni Over US-EU Trade Deal
Rome: Opposition politicians on Monday criticized the recent trade deal between the European Union and the United States, which includes a 15% tariff on European imports, attributing it partly to the failed strategy of Premier Giorgia Meloni’s government. The centre-left Democratic Party (PD) expressed concerns over Meloni’s unsuccessful attempts to mediate between US President Donald Trump and European leaders.
According to Ansa News Agency, PD Senate whip Francesco Boccia commented, “The agreement signed yesterday on tariffs between the EU and the US is clearly Europe’s surrender to Trumpism. With a 15% tariff on European products, hundreds of thousands of workers could lose their jobs, and our exports are at risk.” He further criticized the economic implications, highlighting the $750 billion American gas purchase and a $600 billion investment in the US, including mandatory purchases of American weapons.
Boccia questioned the Italian right’s endorsement of the agreement, suggesting that the envisioned ‘bridge’ between Europe and the US has failed. He described Europe as being humiliated by what he termed as an “unfair agreement,” perceiving it as an American imposition on a divided Europe. He warned of the “dramatic repercussions” on Italy’s productive system due to these commitments.
Chiara Appendino of the 5-Star Movement (M5S) also voiced her disapproval. “Meloni believes the agreement between Europe and Trump is sustainable, even though she candidly admits she doesn’t know the details,” Appendino said. She accused Meloni of misleading the public to cover up what she sees as a defeat co-signed with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, lamenting the impact on Italian businesses and the Made in Italy brand.
Appendino further criticized the European Commission’s role, suggesting that their policies are detrimental to Italian industry and advocating for von der Leyen’s immediate resignation, portraying the situation as a catering to the interests of the arms lobby and Trump at the expense of national interests.