Macron and Meloni forge strategic alliance in Antibes amid rift with Washington
The bilateral summit marks the first meeting since the 2021 strategic alliance treaty, with both nations seeking to deepen cooperation in defence and energy sectors while navigating divergent positions on Ukraine and EU trade.
French President Emmanuel Macron hosted Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni for a bilateral summit in Antibes on the French Riviera on Thursday, marking the first such meeting between the two leaders since their strategic alliance treaty came into force in 2021. The gathering at the Villa Eilenroc, a 19th-century residence overlooking the Mediterranean, aims to solidify Franco-Italian cooperation in defence, nuclear energy, and space sectors.
The summit occurs against a backdrop of diplomatic tension between Meloni and US President Donald Trump, following mockery from the American leader regarding a photograph exchange at a recent G7 meeting. Meloni has since distanced herself from Trump, citing his "constant, unprovoked attacks," a shift that French officials view as beneficial to the strengthening of ties between Paris and Rome.
During the talks, the leaders are expected to sign a defence roadmap that emphasises the Franco-Italian SAMP/T air defence system, which has already been delivered to Ukraine. Additionally, a cooperation agreement on nuclear energy and a pact on a planned European satellite network intended to rival Elon Musk’s Starlink are set to be formalised.
Despite shared opposition to the European Union’s free trade agreement with the Mercosur bloc, the two leaders maintain significant policy divergences. Meloni opposes the deployment of Italian troops to Ukraine for post-war security guarantees, a stance that contrasts with Macron’s position, while Rome continues to advocate for migrant detention centres outside the European Union.
Relations between the pro-European centrist Macron and Meloni, who leads a coalition of right and far-right parties, have historically been strained. However, recent interactions, including a viral greeting at the Élysée Palace in April, suggest a nascent rapprochement. Analysts note that the Italian leader’s move away from Washington aligns with French interests, potentially elevating the Franco-Italian partnership to a level comparable to that between France and Germany.
