Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s decision to not support Ursula von der Leyen’s re-election as European Commission president has sparked concerns about Italy’s future influence within the EU. While Meloni cites her commitment to her right-wing base as the reason for her stance, analysts warn that this move could ultimately hurt Italy’s interests.
By refusing to align with the left-leaning bloc that supported von der Leyen, Meloni prioritizes internal political maneuvering over potentially jeopardizing her standing with her hard-right coalition partner, Matteo Salvini’s League. However, this decision could result in Italy facing less favorable treatment from the Commission regarding its public finances and access to EU recovery funds.
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Despite this potential setback, Meloni remains confident that Italy will secure a prominent role in the new Commission, with European Affairs Minister Raffaele Fitto as its candidate. However, some experts suggest that Italy’s isolation within the EU could hinder its ability to effectively engage in crucial issues like defense and migration.
Meloni’s decision highlights the delicate balancing act between domestic political pressures and the need for international cooperation. It remains to be seen whether her strategy will ultimately benefit Italy or further isolate it on the European stage.