In an encouraging development, former President Donald Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed optimism about a potential agreement on US-EU tariffs during Meloni’s recent visit to the White House. Emphasizing her role as a key figure in fostering transatlantic relations, Meloni positioned herself as the only European leader capable of alleviating the trade tensions instigated by Trump’s policies. Her bold assertion, “My mission is to make the West great again,” resonated throughout their discussions.
“There will be a trade deal, 100%,” Trump confidently proclaimed during their working lunch, with Meloni asserting her own belief in the possibility of reaching an agreement. Their meeting in the Oval Office was characterized by warmth and camaraderie, with Trump referring to Meloni as “fantastic.”
Prior to their lunch, the two leaders met in the Cabinet Room, where Meloni shared that Trump has accepted an invitation to visit Rome in the “near future,” offering the possibility of engaging with other European leaders during his stay. “Even though we face some challenges across the Atlantic, now is the time for us to come together and seek common solutions,” she remarked.
Echoing her commitment to collaboration, Meloni emphasized their mutual stance on immigration and what she termed “woke” ideology: “My goal is to elevate the West, and I believe we can achieve this together.”
Despite Trump’s confidence in a forthcoming deal with the European Union, which he recently accused of attempting to “screw” the United States, he indicated he was in “no rush” to finalize arrangements. “Everyone wants to strike a deal, and if they’re reluctant, we’ll handle it ourselves,” Trump stated with characteristic bluntness.
Trump reiterated his administration’s long-held criticisms of Europe, urging the continent to “get smart” on immigration and increase its defense contributions to NATO. Additionally, he revealed that China has reached out regarding possible negotiations to end the ongoing trade war, which saw Trump impose staggering tariffs, including a 145% levy on certain Chinese goods.
As Prime Minister Meloni prepares to return to Rome to host US Vice President JD Vance, Trump remarked, “I believe we’re on track to secure a great deal with China.”
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine, however, remains a sensitive issue. Meloni has been a fervent ally of Ukraine and its president, Volodymyr Zelensky, condemning Russia’s recent attacks as “horrible and vile.” Trump, on the other hand, has caused a stir among allies with his favorable remarks about Russia, expressing discontent over the war’s initiation but stopping short of placing responsibility on Zelensky.
“I don’t blame Zelensky, but I’m not exactly pleased that the war started at all,” Trump noted, underscoring a complex dynamic between the two leaders.
Amid these discussions, Meloni acknowledged the uncertainty her trip has carried, recognizing her role as a defender of European stability. “I understand what I stand for and what I am fighting to protect,” she stated, highlighting the delicate state of transatlantic relations.
Italian media reported that one objective of Meloni’s visit was to lay the groundwork for a meeting between Trump and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. However, Meloni’s direct engagement with Trump has raised concerns among some EU allies about potential challenges to bloc unity. “If we shift to bilateral talks, it could disrupt the current dynamics,” warned France’s Industry Minister Marc Ferracci.
Nevertheless, a spokesperson for the European Commission indicated that while the EU holds the authority to negotiate trade agreements, Meloni’s overtures are welcomed and were made in coordination with Brussels.
With Trump’s tariff threats looming large, Italy, as the world’s fourth-largest exporter, could face significant economic repercussions, given that nearly 10% of its exports make their way to the United States. As the world watches closely, the implications of these discussions will resonate far beyond the walls of the White House.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.
