Since taking office, President Trump has posed challenges to European nations regarding their security and economies, sought to assert control over Greenland, and indicated plans to impose tariffs on various countries. Even some of his traditional allies have expressed unease, with many distancing themselves from the American president.
However, a recent summit in Madrid served as a rallying point for leaders of far-right parties in Europe, who gathered to support a new era aligned with Trump’s policies. Notable figures included Marine Le Pen from France's National Rally, Geert Wilders from the Netherlands, and Matteo Salvini from Italy's League party. They collectively condemned what they term “wokeism,” “gender theory,” and excessive environmentalism.
Prime Minister Viktor Orban of Hungary remarked that Trump’s influence has shifted their parties from the political fringe to the mainstream, stating, “Yesterday we were the heretics. Now we are the mainstream.”
The summit featured familiar themes from the European far right, such as criticizing the media, attacking liberal elites, and opposing immigration. Attendees also echoed Trump’s recent criticisms of international organizations, with Salvini denouncing the World Health Organization and the International Criminal Court.
Afroditi Latinopoulou, a member of the Greek far-right party Voice of Reason, described Trump’s election as “the Western world’s final opportunity.” While some parties at the rally are already part of governing coalitions, others, like Le Pen’s National Party and Spain’s Vox, remain outside of power.
Despite expectations of a surge in support for far-right parties during the last European Parliament elections, the anticipated wave did not fully materialize. However, these parties continue to gain traction among younger voters and believe that Trump’s victory has invigorated their movements.
Attendees criticized what they referred to as “liberal fascists” and expressed concerns over immigration and cultural changes, often referencing conspiracy theories. They also shared a common skepticism toward the European Union, despite its financial benefits for their countries.
The rally highlighted a desire to diminish the power of the European Union, with Salvini stating, “Less Europe, more freedom.” Some attendees expressed indifference toward the concept of a unified Europe, with one retired architect questioning the need to defend it.
Participants uniformly criticized the European Union as an entity of unelected officials imposing regulations that undermine national sovereignty. Le Pen articulated this sentiment, asserting that the EU diminishes state power.
Discussions about making Europe “great again” often revolved around promoting Christianity and restoring national pride. Some attendees even voiced a preference for re-establishing historical colonial ties with Latin America over fostering connections with other European nations.
Despite shared goals, divisions were evident among leaders regarding economic policies, with some advocating for free-market principles while others leaned towards protectionism. Orban notably criticized financial support for Ukraine, attributing it to Brussels’ influence.