Italy voices strong discontent over EU appointments "Smell of a coup d'état"

Italy has expressed dissatisfaction with several recent appointments to high-ranking positions within the European Union (EU), Caliber.Az reports citing Italian media.

"The pact between the Popular, Social, and Liberal parties remained unaffected by the opposition from the 'right-wing' front, comprising Italy, Hungary, and Slovakia. There was no substantial openness to alternatives, only a formal readiness to discuss bids," the reports state.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni opposed the candidacies of Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas and former Portuguese Prime Minister António Costa. Additionally, she abstained from voting on the re-election of Ursula von der Leyen.

According to Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini, what happened smells like a coup d'état.

"Millions of Europeans voted for change across all aspects of Europe, and what do they get in return? The same faces: Ursula von der Leyen in the Commission, a Socialist in the European Council, and one specified by [French President Emmanuel] Macron for foreign policy," Salvini stated indignantly.