Prime Minister Meloni of Italy is likely to pull out of a scheme that has long helped Communist China expand its global influence and reach, the global infrastructure program known as the Belt and Road Initiative. 

Italy’s signing on to Communist China’s initiative in 2019 sent shockwaves through the European Union. Now Ms. Meloni is considering making Italy a rare participant to leave the program prior to 2024, when it is due for renewal. As tensions escalate between Washington and Beijing, Ms. Meloni seeks to show her loyalty to America, political analysts say.