Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has recently emphasized her support for U.S. Vice President JD Vance during her appearance at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) held on February 22. Speaking via videolink from Rome, Meloni came to Vance's defense following his controversial remarks at the Munich Security Conference, where he labeled Europe’s greatest threat as coming "from within."
Meloni, leader of the far-right Brothers of Italy party, dismissed the backlash from liberal elites who were uncomfortable with Vance's take on issues of identity and democracy. "Vice President Vance was discussing something more abstract: identity, democracy, freedom of speech," Meloni stated, reflecting her alignment with conservative rhetoric.
Vance's address, characterized by its "America First" ideology, left many European leaders taken aback as they sought guidance on how the United States would approach negotiations to end the conflict with Ukraine. Instead of offering reassurance, Vance’s bold declarations stirred discontent, prompting criticism from various corners, including Meloni's political opposition.
Meloni, positioning herself as part of the international conservative movement, emphasized the need for Europe to reclaim its identity and autonomy. She rebuked what she called the continent’s sacrifice "on the altar of wokeness, bureaucracy and mercantilism," reiterate the significance of strong leadership.
Further addressing the pushback against Vance, Meloni argued, "If those who were outraged had shown the same pride when Europe lost its strategic autonomy, tying its economy to autocratic regimes, or when our borders and way of life were threatened by mass illegal migration, we would have a stronger Europe today."
The Italian Prime Minister’s support for Vance is notable, particularly as it coincides with rising tensions transatlantically, particularly concerning Europe's role amid the U.S. Trump's administration stance on issues like Ukraine. Despite calling for unity and collaboration, Meloni has walked the line of being supportive of the Ukrainian cause without directly addressing Trump’s controversial rhetoric about them.
Meloni’s remarks came against the backdrop of mounting criticism aimed at her decision to participate in CPAC, especially after the event was marred by Steve Bannon appearing to perform a Nazi salute. Political figures like Elly Schlein, leader of Italy's Democratic Party, condemned the CPAC as akin to a "neo-fascist gathering" and urged Meloni to withdraw. Still, the Prime Minister pushed through with her appearance, boldly aligning herself with the right-wing convention.
Giorgio Mule, vice-president of the Chamber of Deputies, observed the gravity of Bannon's actions, which was perceived as serious. He noted the expectation for Meloni to distance herself from such behavior, raising concern over her connection with CPAC and the broader implications on her political image.
Despite being critiqued for her association with Trump's tightening grip on Europe, Meloni maintained her narrative of shared struggles against the prevailing leftist ideologies. Through her presence at CPAC and alignment with Vance, she aims to significantly influence the dialogue around U.S.-European relations, particularly under the challenging political climate fueled by Trump.
Meloni concluded her speech with stressed conviction, stating, "We serve the people, we do not rule over them," encapsulating her firm belief in representing the interests of her constituents and asserting her stance against left-wing narratives.
With global conservatism seeming to rise, Meloni’s attempts at reinforcing transatlantic ties with the likes of Trump and Vance amid controversies reveal her strategy to unify like-minded leaders against what they perceive as elitist threats across the Atlantic.
This situation has raised questions about the future of international alliances and the balance of power as populist leaders gain ground both domestically and abroad, altering the course of established diplomatic protocols.