Italian Lega politician Matteo Salvini, who currently serves as transport minister and deputy to Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, narrowly survived a motion of no confidence brought against him by the opposition in a recent debate in the Chamber of Deputies in Rome. With 209 MPs rejecting the motion and only 129 in favor, while three abstained, Salvini retained his position.
Salvini, known for his tough stance on boat refugees and rescue organizations during his time as interior minister, is currently facing criticism at home for his statements regarding Russia. Some interpret his support for Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin as being too enthusiastic, raising concerns among some within his own party. Despite this, the Lega has released a statement distancing itself from a previous agreement with United Russia in 2017.
As Salvini’s leadership within the Lega continues to be questioned, there is growing dissent among party members regarding his position within the party. The upcoming European elections in June are being closely watched in Rome, with Salvini’s position potentially at risk if Lega performs poorly. Current polls show Lega polling below ten percent, trailing behind Meloni’s Fratelli d’Italia party which has moved towards the center since coming to power. In contrast to their previous successes in the 2019 European elections where they secured over 34 percent of the vote.
