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| US President-elect Donald Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Getty Images |
Following a recent meeting with Trump, Meloni described their interaction positively, characterizing him as a "live wire" and expressing optimism about their potential to "straighten out the world a little bit." Despite their political similarities, nuanced differences remain, particularly regarding global conflicts like the Ukraine war, where Meloni has been a staunch supporter of President Volodymyr Zelensky.
A Strategic European Bridge
Political experts, like Giovanni Orsina from Luiss University, suggest Meloni could become a pivotal diplomatic figure. "With unstable governments in Germany and France, Italy—under Meloni's leadership—might become the primary European interlocutor when Trump returns to the White House," Orsina told CNN.
Meloni's connection to the Trump-adjacent political sphere extends beyond personal diplomacy. Her friendship with Elon Musk, which began in summer 2023, has further enhanced her potential influence. Musk has publicly supported Meloni, even headlining her political convention, Atreju, in December.
Navigating Complex Relationships
The relationship between Meloni and Musk garnered significant attention earlier this year when a viral photo sparked romance rumors. Both quickly dispelled these speculations, with Musk explicitly stating on X (formerly Twitter) that there was "no romantic relationship whatsoever."
However, the connection remains strategically significant. Orsina believes Musk could serve as a diplomatic facilitator, potentially helping Meloni establish communication channels with Trump.
Shifting Alliances
Not all of Meloni's historical allies remain steadfast. Steve Bannon, once a vocal supporter, has grown critical. He recently told an Italian newspaper that Meloni has become "almost a Nikki Haley," suggesting she has moderated her stance and may be more influenced by Trump than vice versa.
Meloni, meanwhile, appears confident. She has already signaled her diplomatic intentions, posting a photo with Trump and declaring, "The USA-EU axis passes through Italy."
The Road Ahead
As the political landscape continues to evolve, Meloni's ability to navigate complex international relationships will be crucial. Whether she can genuinely influence Trump's approach to Europe remains to be seen, but her strategic positioning suggests she is preparing to play a significant role in transatlantic relations.
The coming months will reveal the depth and impact of this emerging diplomatic dynamic.
