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How Giorgia Meloni became Trump's best friend in Europe

How Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni rose from working class, hard-right roots to become Donald Trump鈥檚 most trusted ally in Europe.

Giorgia Meloni is Italy鈥檚 first female Prime Minister, and her political star has risen rapidly - from working class roots in Rome, to becoming one of the most important and divisive leaders in Europe.

A populist whose party has roots in Italian fascism, and who takes a hard right stance on migration and family values, she has formed a kinship with Donald Trump, who this month alone has promoted her autobiography and her speeches online, and called her 鈥渂eautiful鈥 on stage.

In today鈥檚 episode, journalist Barbara Serra joins us to discuss Meloni鈥檚 increasingly crucial role in US-European relations.

Producers: Hannah Moore and Valerio Esposito
Executive producer: James Shield
Mix: Travis Evans
Senior news editor: China Collins

Photo: YOAN VALAT/POOL/EPA/Shutterstock

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27 minutes

Last on

Sat 25 Oct 2025 00:32GMT

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  • Fri 24 Oct 2025 10:32GMT
  • Sat 25 Oct 2025 00:32GMT

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