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Thursday, Jun 18, 2026
Outside the box.
Italy Votes in EU Elections, Meloni Positioned as Key Powerbroker
Italy began voting in the European Union elections, potentially positioning far-right leader Giorgia Meloni as a significant influence in the bloc. The Brothers of Italy party could win 27% of the vote, amidst a broader far-right surge. The elections focus on issues like immigration, with increased support for far-right parties across the EU.
Italy began voting in the European Union elections, potentially positioning far-right leader Giorgia Meloni as a significant influence in the bloc.
The EU's third-largest economy could see Meloni's Brothers of Italy party winning 27% of the vote, amidst a broader far-right surge.
This outcome could impact EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen's chances for a second term.
Meloni has been courted by both von der Leyen and French far-right leader Marine Le Pen, although some diplomats caution against overstating her influence.
The elections, focusing on issues like immigration, have seen increased support for far-right parties across the EU.
Tens of thousands in Germany rallied against the far-right, while analysts question potential alliances between the main centrist groups and far-right lawmakers.
Italy's vote coincides with Slovakia, where recent political violence has shaped voter sentiment.
Slovakia's Russia-friendly ruling party, led by Robert Fico, opposes EU arms deliveries to Ukraine.
The EU's third-largest economy could see Meloni's Brothers of Italy party winning 27% of the vote, amidst a broader far-right surge.
This outcome could impact EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen's chances for a second term.
Meloni has been courted by both von der Leyen and French far-right leader Marine Le Pen, although some diplomats caution against overstating her influence.
The elections, focusing on issues like immigration, have seen increased support for far-right parties across the EU.
Tens of thousands in Germany rallied against the far-right, while analysts question potential alliances between the main centrist groups and far-right lawmakers.
Italy's vote coincides with Slovakia, where recent political violence has shaped voter sentiment.
Slovakia's Russia-friendly ruling party, led by Robert Fico, opposes EU arms deliveries to Ukraine.