Meloni emphasized that the foundations of the EU and democracies are being challenged by 'cynical autocracies' and called for the Union to reaffirm its core values and identity.

She referenced Draghi's concerns, suggesting that her own predictions about Europe's decline have been realized.

Her comments reinforce the narrative of Europe's need to address its geopolitical vulnerabilities to maintain influence on the global stage.

During a speech in Rimini, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni criticized the European Union, warning it is 'increasingly condemned to geopolitical insignificance' due to its inability to effectively respond to global challenges from China and the USA.

Since October 2022, Meloni has led Italy's right-wing coalition and has shifted from her initial EU skepticism to a more moderate stance as head of government.

Her leadership reflects a strategic move to balance her party's original positions with the pragmatic needs of governing within the EU framework.

She urged the EU to rediscover its core principles amid these external threats, during a 40-minute speech in Rimini.

Her comments come as the EU's position weakens in the face of shifting global power dynamics, with Meloni emphasizing the need for the Union to rediscover its core values and identity.

Although she was elected with a far-right, eurosceptic platform, Meloni has moderated her views on the EU during her time in office.

Her speech highlighted that the EU and democratic institutions are under threat from autocratic regimes, requiring a renewed sense of purpose.

Meloni's warnings echo those of former ECB President Mario Draghi, who previously warned about Europe's geopolitical and economic weaknesses.

Meloni warned that the EU faces potential 'irrelevance' amid rising competition from the US and China, highlighting concerns about its diminished global influence.