Chronicle of a meet
A week that will go down in history—the one just passed. In the midst of a trade war, Giorgia Meloni, dressed in white, looked like a dove of peace. Her meeting with Trump at the White House brought a glimmer of hope for Europe. The long-awaited encounter between U.S. President Donald Trump and the Italian Prime Minister took place in Washington.
The meeting opened with strong words of praise from Trump, who described Meloni as “an extraordinary leader” and applauded her work in Italy: “I like Giorgia a lot. She’s one of the real world leaders and is doing an exceptional job.”
The most important takeaway: the American president expressed optimism about the possibility of a new trade agreement with the European Union, assuring that there are good prospects for fair cooperation. “I’m confident, I believe we’ll reach an agreement,” he said, adding that negotiations with China on tariffs are also making progress.
Meloni, for her part, took the opportunity to officially invite Trump to Italy and expressed hope for a direct dialogue between the United States and European representatives. “I believe it’s important to have a clear dialogue and seek compromise,” said the Prime Minister, emphasizing the need to strengthen transatlantic ties. “I don’t support an idea of Western nationalism, but I do believe both sides can come out stronger. I’m convinced an agreement is possible.”
Trump reiterated that the deal with the EU on tariffs “will definitely happen” and that there won’t be significant obstacles. He also thanked Italy for its support of Ukraine, stating the conflict may be nearing a turning point: “Perhaps we’re nearing the end of the war, but in the coming days, we’ll hear news from Russia,” he said.
Regarding a possible European peace mission in Ukraine, Trump responded that such initiatives are always welcome but left the decision on Italy’s involvement to the Italian government. He also announced that on Thursday, an agreement with Kyiv will be signed concerning strategic minerals.
A small curiosity:
During the meeting in the Oval Office, an Italian journalist asked Trump whether he had ever called Europeans “parasites.” The president denied it, and Meloni also said the word had never been used by him. In reality, the term had been used by some of Trump’s political allies, like J.D. Vance and Pete Hegseth, and Trump had simply expressed agreement with their views.
Trump then reaffirmed the importance of the relationship with Italy: “If Giorgia remains in office, your country could become our strongest ally. She’s an extraordinary leader, and our bond is excellent.” A strong closing statement that sets the foundation for strengthening bilateral relations.
Of course, Meloni didn’t show up empty-handed: she brought the announcement that at the next NATO summit, Italy will officially commit to increasing defense spending to 2% of GDP, as requested by the allies. “Europe is equipping itself to help member countries invest more in security. Everyone must do their part,” said the Prime Minister. Trump commented: “2% is a good target, but it’s never really enough.”
