Ursula von der Leyen's re-election as European Commission President has exposed a rift in Italian politics.

While Antonio Tajani's party supported her confirmation, the groups led by Giorgia Meloni and Matteo Salvini opposed it.

This marks an unprecedented stance for Italy, one of the EU's founding members, to openly oppose the majority backing the community executive.

Despite the opposition, von der Leyen secured her position.

Following the European Parliament vote, she expressed gratitude for the recognition of her past five years' work.

Von der Leyen announced plans for a brief respite with family before embarking on her next term, stating she is 'full of ideas' for the future of Europe.