Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni met with US President Donald Trump at the White House on April 17, 2025, in a meeting characterized by warmth and mutual admiration. The two leaders discussed a range of topics, including tariffs, defense spending, NATO, and the ongoing war in Ukraine, all while reinforcing their close relationship.
During the bilateral meeting held in the Oval Office, followed by a closed-door lunch, Meloni expressed her belief that Italy could be the best ally of the United States, provided she remains in office. "Italy can be the best ally of the United States if Meloni remains premier," Trump stated, praising her leadership and the strong ties between their nations. He added, "She is a great person, she is doing a great job and our relationship is great. Italy is one of our closest allies not only in Europe." This sentiment set the tone for a productive dialogue.
Trade was a significant focus of their discussions, with both leaders expressing optimism about reaching a fair trade deal with the European Union. Trump emphasized, "There will be no problem making a deal with the EU on tariffs, there will be no problem with anybody," while Meloni echoed this confidence, stating, "I believe in the unity of the West, we simply have to talk and arrive at results." This unity, she noted, is not merely geographical but represents a shared civilization.
Meloni also announced that Italy would increase its energy imports and that Italian companies would invest €10 billion in the US. This move is seen as a way to strengthen economic ties further. The Italian premier noted, "We are trying to develop [nuclear energy], this is another axis of work together and I think there will be other paths of joint work." This investment comes at a time when Italy is seeking to bolster its energy security amid rising global energy demands.
On defense spending, Meloni confirmed Italy's commitment to increase its military expenditures to meet NATO's guideline of 2% of GDP, a topic that has been of particular concern to the Trump administration. "Italy intends to reach the 2% threshold," she announced. Trump, however, remarked, "It is never enough," indicating that he believes more should be done. This commitment is crucial as the US has been urging European allies to enhance their defense capabilities.
The leaders also touched upon migration policies, with both countries sharing common ground on the issue. Meloni highlighted Italy's tough stance on irregular immigration, while Trump criticized European migration policies. "I'm not a big fan of Europe and what they've done on immigration, but I think they're going to have to get smarter," he stated. Meloni responded by noting that European policies are evolving, crediting Italy's example for this change.
The war in Ukraine was another contentious topic, with differing views on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's performance. Meloni affirmed her support for Ukraine, stating, "I think there was an invasion and that the invader was Putin and Russia," while Trump expressed his skepticism about Zelenskyy's effectiveness. "I wouldn’t say he’s done the greatest job, okay? I’m not a big fan. I really am, I’m not a big fan," he remarked, a statement that reflects a significant shift in US attitudes towards Ukraine under his leadership.
Meloni's meeting with Trump marks her as the first European leader to engage with the US president since he announced and then suspended a 20% tariff on European exports, a move that has stirred uncertainty in transatlantic relations. The EU, with annual trade totaling €1.6 trillion ($1.8 trillion) with the US, is keen to negotiate a zero-for-zero tariff deal, but the Trump administration has been firm on its baseline 10% tariff.
As the meeting concluded, Meloni extended an invitation to Trump for an official visit to Italy, where he may also meet with EU representatives. This potential visit is seen as an opportunity to strengthen dialogue between Washington and Brussels, a critical relationship for both parties.
In summary, the meeting between Meloni and Trump highlighted their shared goals and mutual respect, despite some differences, particularly concerning Ukraine. Both leaders expressed a commitment to work together on trade, defense, and energy, aiming to solidify the transatlantic alliance in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.
