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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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