Analysts and experts confirmed that the European Union should act as a single bloc, since individual countries will not be able to play a significant role. This was stated by the Director for External Relations of the European Council for International Relations in Rome, Teresita Coratella. She stated that Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni should bear in mind that if relations with the USA deteriorate - which could happen within 24 hours, Italy will not be able to cope with the situation alone.
Coratella clarified that it is important for Italy to act first as a defender of the European system, since in the case of a clash between US President Donald Trump and Euro-Atlantic policies, and the introduction of trade tariffs, this will likely bring negative results for Meloni.
When US President Donald Trump threatened to impose tariffs on goods from the European Union earlier this month, the EU's response was clear: "We will respond firmly." However, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni chose a more moderate line, stating that "the conflict is not in the interests of anyone" and that dialogue and a balanced solution are a way to address this problem.
In recent months, Meloni has been strengthening her position as a European leader, close to Trump, which, analysts say, strengthens her position for a possible "bridge" between the new US administration and Europe.
Since taking office in October 2022, Meloni has undergone a drastic change in her political career, shifting from a leader of the far-right fascist party after the war to a more traditional conservative position, especially in foreign policy. She has become a symbol that right-wing populists can use to strengthen their ruling authority.
Overall, Meloni’s position with Trump is considered important for Italy, but raises concerns about her ability to influence Trump's policies or represent the interests of the entire European Union. Political science professor from the University of Sarri, Daniel Albertaci, believes that Meloni will likely not have much influence over Trump.
Many analysts believe that Meloni's main motives in her relations with Trump are about Italy's interests, not Europe's, although it is generally believed that she distances herself from the European Union's stance on key issues, especially related to Ukraine or her strong relations with the European Commission, which is crucial for the country's economic stability.
Many of Meloni's actions with Trump are viewed in light of Italy's interests. Furthermore, Trump continues to maintain myths about Chinese goods, and many expect that his curator will come to Europe in the near future, invoking new disputes between the USA and Europe.
