China & Giorgia Meloni

China: A ballooning trade deficit with China is another reason European leaders are finding more incentives to coordinate their positions.

Giorgia Meloni: Giorgia Meloni, Prime Minister of Italy, has gained stronger ties with other European leaders after being criticized by Donald Trump. Her stance on Ukraine and refusal to allow United States bombers to use a base in Italy — Sicily without parliamentary approval have contributed to this shift, though her association with Donald Trump has negatively impacted her popularity in Italy.

China: China's activities in the Arctic region are being countered by NATO's 'Arctic Sentry' military exercise.

Giorgia Meloni: Donald Trump's comments about Giorgia Meloni led to a diplomatic incident and the cancellation of a U.S. visit by Italy's foreign minister.