Trump and Meloni Set Sights on US-Europe Trade Agreement

During a visit to Washington, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and former President Donald Trump expressed optimism about reaching a trade agreement between the US and Europe, emphasizing fair terms and cooperation on pressing issues like defense and immigration.

Donald Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni recently convened in Washington to explore the potential for a trade agreement between the US and Europe. Meloni's visit marks the first by a European leader since Trump imposed and later paused significant tariffs on imports from the EU. Trump confidently asserted, "There will be a trade deal, 100%," while stressing that it would be a fair one. Meloni echoed this sentiment, stating she was "sure" an agreement could be reached, aiming to "make the West great again."

The meeting came in a time when transatlantic relations are under strain due to tariff disputes. The Italian leader aims to establish herself as a key intermediary between the EU and the US, addressing growing concerns about the broader repercussions of Trump's policies. Following their discussions, which included defense, immigration, and tariffs, the atmosphere in the Oval Office was reported to be congenial, reminiscent of previous visits by other world leaders.

Despite not achieving concrete tariff concessions during her time with Trump, Meloni highlighted her success in inviting the former president to visit Rome. This visit could present an opportunity for Trump to meet with European Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen, enhancing Meloni's appeal as a broker in US-EU relations. As she prepares to return to Europe, Meloni appears bolstered by her reputation as a "Trump whisperer" and is anticipated to meet US Vice President JD Vance in Rome shortly.

During their talks, Meloni praised Trump's perspectives while also advocating for her government's performance, touting improved economic indicators in Italy. She acknowledged the challenges of Italian defense spending, stating her expectations to meet NATO's 2% GDP requirement by the next summit, contrasting past criticisms about her administration's lower defense allocations.

Italian opposition leader Carlo Calenda remarked on the positive outcomes from the meeting, particularly Meloni's steadfast support for Ukraine and her ability to coax Trump's engagement with EU leaders. However, Calenda voiced concerns over her endorsement of Trump's critique of "woke culture." Overall, Meloni seems to depart Washington with reinforced credentials as a vital player in shaping future US-EU relations amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.