The Hungarian prime minister, Viktor Orban, was isolated, the sole holdout to a landmark European Union fund for Ukraine worth billions.
Giorgia Meloni, Italy’s prime minister, who had long shared his antagonism to the E.U, was that sympathetic ear.
Over drinks for an hour, Mr. Orban complained about being treated unfairly by the E.U.
A hard-right leader herself, Ms. Meloni told him that she too had felt the prejudice.
But it was also a big moment for Ms. Meloni — who sealed her credibility as someone who could play an influential role in the top tier of European leaders.
Persons:
Viktor Orban, Giorgia, Orban, Meloni
Organizations:
European Union
Locations:
Italy, Ukraine, Europe