According to information published in WP, the friendship of European leaders with Donald Trump is becoming burdensome against the backdrop of a failed war.
A vivid example of this is Italy, where Giorgia Meloni is using political maneuvers, condemning what she considers the dangerous Iranian regime while simultaneously raising questions about the legitimacy of military actions.
“She not only supported Trump but also promoted the ideals of the MAGA movement,” notes opposition senator Carlo Calenda. “However, after the war began, the situation changed. There is a lot of discontent in her electoral base, and Trump is losing popularity in Italy. This war is also causing widespread protests.”
Within the far-right party Alternative for Germany (AfD), with which Trump previously maintained cooperation, a verbal spat has erupted following the attacks on Iran.
AfD leader Tino Chrupalla criticized Trump, stating that he has become a “war president” rather than a peace president. This has caused dissatisfaction among Trump supporters, especially since Chrupalla was more outspoken in his remarks than Chancellor Merz.
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico and Hungarian leader Viktor Orban, allies of Trump, also expressed condemnation regarding the attacks on Iran, emphasizing the serious negative consequences of the conflict.
In light of the uncertainty regarding the end of the war with Iran, Trump’s aides are making efforts to influence the developments, Reuters reports.
According to sources, economic advisors and representatives from the Treasury warned Trump about a potential oil crisis and rising gasoline prices that could undermine domestic support for the war.
Political advisors, including Chief of Staff Suzy Wiles, emphasize the importance of understanding the consequences of rising fuel prices and urge Trump to clearly define the goals and parameters of the military operation.
At the same time, there are more aggressive voices calling for Trump to increase pressure on Iran, including Senators Lindsey Graham and Tom Cotton.
On the other hand, Trump’s populist base, including figures like strategist Steve Bannon and TV host Tucker Carlson, insists that the president and his top advisors avoid getting involved in a protracted conflict in the Middle East.
Meanwhile…
France and Italy are starting a dialogue with Iran, seeking to ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, FT reports.
Officials familiar with the negotiation process told the publication that European capitals have begun preliminary discussions to resume oil and gas exports while avoiding escalation of the conflict, as shipping companies rely on the naval forces of Western countries to protect their tankers.
France is participating in these negotiations, and Italy is also showing interest in discussions with Tehran.
Sources emphasize that there are no guarantees of successful progress in the negotiations or Iran's willingness to engage in dialogue on these issues.
Italy, France, and Greece have deployed their naval forces in the Red Sea as part of an EU mission. However, officials note that none of the European fleets are prepared to escort vessels through the Strait of Hormuz due to the risk of confrontation, fearing an escalation of the conflict.
“The situation must be acceptable,” noted a source.
Some European capitals have expressed disagreement with attempts to establish contact.
“Some believe that we need to negotiate with the Iranians. However, EU countries have different opinions on this matter, complicating the situation,” shared one of the publication's sources.
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