Washington, DC – Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni strongly defended conservative leadership worldwide while criticizing what she described as the “liberal establishment” for its double standards. Speaking via video at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Washington, DC, she praised former U.S. President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while condemning left-leaning elites for their criticism of right-wing leaders.
Meloni Accuses Liberals of “Hypocrisy”
During her address, Meloni argued that as conservative leaders gain global influence, liberal opposition has intensified. She claimed that left-wing politicians and media outlets use different standards when evaluating political figures.
“When Bill Clinton and Tony Blair built a global liberal network in the 1990s, they were celebrated as visionary leaders,” Meloni remarked. “Yet, when leaders like Trump, Modi, Javier Milei, or myself speak up, we are labeled as threats to democracy. This is the hypocrisy of the Left. But despite their relentless attacks, people continue to support us at the polls.”
The Italian leader expressed confidence that Trump’s influence in the global conservative movement remains strong despite opposition efforts to undermine his leadership.
“The Left is growing desperate,” she added. “With Trump’s resurgence, their frustration has turned into outright panic. But what worries them the most is that conservative leaders are now collaborating across borders.”
Only EU Leader at Trump’s 2025 Inauguration
Meloni has positioned herself as one of Trump’s closest allies in Europe. She was the only European Union head of government to attend his presidential inauguration in January 2025, reinforcing her alliance with his administration.
Her participation at CPAC, a major gathering for conservatives in the U.S., has sparked backlash from political rivals in Italy.
Backlash in Italy Over CPAC Appearance
Meloni’s speech came amid controversy surrounding former Trump adviser Steve Bannon, who was accused of making a Nazi salute during the event. Jordan Bardella, a French far-right leader who is familiar with Nazi ideology, withdrew from CPAC in protest.
Italian opposition figures have called on Meloni to distance herself from the conference. Elly Schlein, leader of Italy’s center-left Democratic Party, criticized her involvement.
“She should disavow this far-right gathering,” Schlein stated. “She remains silent about Trump’s controversial remarks on Ukraine and the European Union, showing that she prioritizes pleasing the new American leadership over defending Italian and European interests.”
Meloni Stresses Strong U.S.-Europe Relations
Amid growing concerns about Trump’s stance on NATO and potential shifts in U.S. foreign policy, Meloni reassured European allies that transatlantic ties remain firm.
“The alliance between the United States and Europe will endure under Trump’s leadership,” she stated, attempting to ease anxieties about America’s role in global security.
Her speech at CPAC highlighted the increasing cooperation among conservative leaders worldwide, with figures like Modi, Milei, and Trump shaping the movement’s future. However, her alignment with right-wing politics in the U.S. has fueled divisions within Italy and across Europe.
As Trump’s administration moves forward, Meloni’s role in shaping Italy’s foreign policy, NATO relations, and European politics will remain under scrutiny.
