EU's far-right bloc unites in Madrid amid tensions

A rally in Madrid organized by the far-right bloc Patriots for Europe, led by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and France's Marine Le Pen, showcased the group's strengthened presence in the European Parliament following recent electoral successes. The meeting, under the slogan 'Make Europe Great Again,' aimed to promote a shift in EU policies, emphasizing national sovereignty and rejecting mass immigration. Attended by approximately 2,000 supporters, the event highlighted the bloc's emergence as the third-largest force in the European Parliament, overtaking other far-right groups. Participants, including leaders like Geert Wilders and Matteo Salvini, expressed their intent to challenge the existing Brussels coalition and advocate for a more nationalist agenda. Despite controversies surrounding host party Vox, the gathering sought to unify far-right factions amid rising tensions in Europe. The influence of Donald Trump’s return to power also served as a motivating factor for the participants, aligning their visions for a stronger nationalist movement in Europe.