Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni strongly criticized what she described as a global liberal network, accusing left-wing politicians of hypocrisy and reacting with "hysteria" to the growing influence of conservative leaders. Speaking via video at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Washington, DC, on Saturday, she praised former US President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance while denouncing political elites.

Meloni argued that liberals have become increasingly frustrated as right-wing figures gain prominence, especially following Trump's return to power. "When Bill Clinton and Tony Blair built their global leftist alliance in the 1990s, they were hailed as visionaries. But when leaders like Trump, myself, Javier Milei, or perhaps Narendra Modi speak up, we are labeled as threats to democracy," she stated. She added that the public no longer believes such narratives, as conservative leaders continue to win elections despite opposition efforts.

The Italian Prime Minister also described Trump as a steadfast figure within the conservative movement, resisting pressure from political opponents. "The Left is growing anxious, and now, with Trump's victory, their frustration has turned into outright hysteria. The real reason is not just that conservatives are winning—it’s that we are now working together on a global scale," she said.

As the leader of the far-right Brothers of Italy party, Meloni was the only European Union head of government to attend Trump's inauguration in January. However, her participation in CPAC drew backlash from political rivals in Italy, particularly after former Trump strategist Steve Bannon appeared to make a Nazi salute during the event.

Opposition leaders, including MPs in Rome, urged Meloni to withdraw from CPAC, citing concerns over Bannon's actions. Jordan Bardella, leader of France’s National Rally (RN) party, chose to pull out of the conference, calling Bannon’s gesture a clear reference to Nazi ideology.

Elly Schlein, head of Italy’s center-left Democratic Party, criticized Meloni’s silence on the controversy. "She refuses to distance herself from this neo-fascist gathering. Furthermore, she has not condemned Trump’s attacks on Ukraine and the European Union. Meloni is failing to stand up for Italian and European interests because she doesn’t want to upset the new US administration," Schlein said.

Amid rising concerns over US-Europe relations, particularly Trump's approach to NATO and diplomatic overtures toward Russia, Meloni reassured allies that transatlantic ties remain strong. "The partnership between the United States and Europe will endure under Trump’s leadership," she insisted.