News Today: U.S. President Meets Italian Prime Minister to Discuss Trade

U.S. President Donald Trump welcomed Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to Washington in a meeting focused on reviving US-EU trade relations and easing tariff tensions. Their Oval Office meeting, described as warm and optimistic, resulted in both leaders expressing confidence in a future trade deal.

“There will be a trade deal, 100%,” said Trump, emphasizing fairness. Meloni echoed this sentiment, declaring, “I’m sure we can reach an agreement,” and adding her intention to “make the West great again.” Their meeting marked the first visit by a European leader since Trump announced a 20% tariff on EU imports—later paused temporarily until July.

Meloni’s visit, dubbed a “commercial peace mission” by her aides, was carefully crafted to mend strained relations. Trump recently imposed a 10% baseline tariff on nearly all imports and has criticized the EU, saying it was “formed to screw the United States.” While no immediate tariff concessions were announced, Meloni successfully secured Trump’s agreement to visit Rome, a move seen as a diplomatic win.

At the joint press conference, both leaders confirmed they discussed a broad range of topics including defence spending, immigration, and trade policy. Meloni underlined her country’s stable economy, noting reduced inflation and increased employment. She said, “Forgive me if I promote my country, but you’re a businessman—you understand me,” prompting laughter from Trump.

The two leaders also shared strong rhetoric on immigration and culture wars. Meloni condemned “woke ideology,” aligning herself closely with Trump’s platform, and said Italy is “setting the example” for the West. Trump praised Meloni for her tough stance on immigration, and for being a “strong and smart leader.”

Despite facing some criticism at home—particularly on Italy’s defence spending—Meloni said Italy plans to meet NATO’s 2% GDP target by the next summit in June.

Opposition leader Carlo Calenda acknowledged the diplomatic gains: “Meloni gained credibility as a bridge between the US and the EU,” though he criticized her praise of Trump’s cultural positions.

Meloni is also expected to meet U.S. Vice President JD Vance in Rome tomorrow, reinforcing her growing influence as the “Trump whisperer” of Europe.