_Rome, Italian Prime Minister *Giorgia Meloni* has publicly rebuked U.S. President *Donald Trump* over his recent comments downplaying NATO’s role in Afghanistan, delivering a stark diplomatic warning that could reshape trans‑Atlantic security. In a statement posted on X, Meloni called Trump’s remarks “unacceptable” and reminded Washington that NATO’s Article 5 activation after 9/11 was an “extraordinary act of solidarity” that Italy supported with thousands of troops, 53 of whom died and more than 700 were wounded.
Beyond the rhetorical clash, Meloni’s government is reportedly weighing concrete measures that would directly affect the U.S. military footprint in Europe. Sources close to the prime minister say Italy could move to *shut down key strategic installations*, namely *Aviano Air Base* in the north and *Naval Air Station Sigonella* in Sicily—both vital hubs for American power projection across the Mediterranean and North Africa. Such a step would “severely undermine” U.S. operational reach in the region, according to defense analysts.
The warning also dovetails with broader European Union actions. Italy is aligning itself with EU trade counter‑measures against U.S. tariffs and has hinted at symbolic cultural boycotts, including a potential rejection of iconic American brands such as McDonald’s. “Friendship requires respect,” Meloni emphasized, signaling that Italy’s traditionally conservative, pro‑Washington stance is shifting toward a more assertive, independent European posture.
For Nigeria and other African nations, the fallout could be significant. A reduced U.S. presence in the Mediterranean may alter security dynamics in North Africa, affecting migration routes and counter‑terrorism cooperation. Moreover, heightened EU‑U.S. tensions could ripple into global trade, impacting commodity prices and investment flows that reach Nigerian markets.
As trans‑Atlantic relations enter a period of uncertainty, observers will watch closely to see whether Italy’s bold stance sparks a broader European realignment or prompts Washington to recalibrate its NATO strategy.
