Daijiworld Media Network - Rome

Rome, Feb 23: Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has launched a blistering attack on the global Left, accusing it of hypocrisy and reacting with "hysteria" to the rise of conservative leaders.

Speaking via video link at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Washington DC, Meloni praised US President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance while criticizing "elites" and left-wing politicians. She claimed that liberals have grown frustrated with the resurgence of right-wing leadership, particularly after Trump’s return to the White House.

"When Bill Clinton and Tony Blair created the global leftist liberal network in the 90s, they were called statesmen," Meloni said. "Today, when Trump, Meloni, (Javier) Milei, or maybe (Narendra) Modi talk, they are called a threat to democracy. This is the Left's double standard. But the good news is, people no longer believe in their lies."

Her remarks sparked controversy back in Italy, especially after Trump’s former strategist, Steve Bannon, appeared to make a Nazi salute during the conference. Opposition MPs, including Democratic Party leader Elly Schlein, urged Meloni to withdraw from CPAC, calling it a "neo-fascist gathering."

Despite criticism, Meloni defended her participation, insisting that US-Europe ties remain strong under Trump. However, concerns persist in Europe over Trump’s diplomatic stance on Russia and potential shifts in NATO policy.