MELONI SAYS ITALY IS NOT THE SPARE WHEEL TO FRANCE AND GERMANY ANYMORE
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has declared she is leading the biggest revolution for her nation. A revolution of pride.
She told The New York Times that Rome must claim its place among global decision-makers. Italy must stop being the spare wheel to France and Germany. It must be seated at the table of those who set the direction.
Meloni also admitted that her relationship with Donald Trump has soured. She has not spoken to the US president for several weeks. She believed things would be easier with Trump. They are not.
The rupture followed Trump’s criticism of Pope Leo. He crossed a line. Tensions also flared after Trump suggested Meloni had begged him for a photograph at the G7 summit in France.
Meloni says Italian foreign policy serves national interests. Not personal relationships. She continues to believe in the unity of the West. But she will not be submissive.
She framed her political ascent as the result of unpopular choices. She has the courage to stand on the uncomfortable side of history. To be against the current.
If Meloni can publicly break with Trump and demand a seat at the table, what is stopping other European leaders. And how long before Italy stops being a follower and starts being a leader.