Italian PM Meloni Meets With Trump at the White House

U.S. President Donald Trump (L) and Italian PM Giorgia Meloni (R), April 17, 2025. X/ @Maks_NAFO_FELLA


April 17, 2025 Hour: 1:39 pm

She seeks to expand the possibilities for European countries to reach a tariff agreement.

On Thursday, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni met with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House, where they discussed the possibility of reaching a tariff agreement.

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“I believe in Western unity, and I believe we simply need to talk and find the best middle ground to grow together—that’s why I’m here,” she said, reaffirming her belief that the U.S. is “a reliable partner.”

On Wednesday, the Republican leader backtracked on the so-called “reciprocal” tariffs he had announced days earlier and softened his stance, instead imposing a general 10% tariff for most countries and regions—including the European Union—for a period of 90 days while negotiations on the duties take place.

“I can’t negotiate on behalf of the European Union. My goal would be to invite President Trump on an official visit to Italy and see if there is also the possibility of organizing a similar meeting with Europe,” Meloni emphasized, referring to the need for open and honest dialogue.

“She is one of the real leaders of the world, and I’m very proud to be with her,” said Trump, who added that Meloni is doing “a great job in Italy.”

In an article published by the Associated Press, however, Colleen Barry and Josh Boak offered a more nuanced view of the White House meeting, placing it in a broader context.

“Meloni’s margins for progress are more in gaining clarity on the Republican president’s goals rather than outright concessions,” they said.

teleSUR/ JF

Sources: EFE – AP