Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is in Washington for a high-stakes meeting with US President Donald Trump, aiming to leverage her personal rapport with him to defuse transatlantic trade tensions. The visit, which comes amid renewed concerns over Trump’s tariff threats against the European Union, could mark a pivotal moment in Italy’s economic diplomacy.
Meloni, who has maintained a warm relationship with Trump calling him a “fantastic leader” is seeking a more favourable deal on EU tariffs. Italy, the EU’s fourth-largest exporter, sends about 10 percent of its exports to the US, making it particularly vulnerable to Washington’s trade policies. Trump’s previously imposed 20 percent duties on EU goods, though currently suspended, remain a looming threat.
Speaking ahead of her visit, Meloni underscored the importance of dialogue over confrontation. “We absolutely must avoid a tariff war,” echoed Italy’s Industry Minister Adolfo Urso, as the Italian government pushes for a “zero for zero” formula eliminating reciprocal tariffs on industrial goods.
However, Meloni’s solo diplomatic mission has stirred unease among some EU partners. France’s industry minister warned that bilateral talks could fracture EU unity, although later statements from both French and European Commission officials softened this stance, acknowledging the value of open dialogue with Washington. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has reportedly remained in close contact with Meloni ahead of the visit.
The Italian leader also faces potential political risks. A recent White House visit by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky turned contentious, raising fears Meloni could face a similar reception. Despite the risk, she remains undeterred, saying, “I know what I represent and what I am defending.”
In addition to trade, Meloni is expected to discuss NATO spending, where Trump is pressing for allies to raise defence budgets from 2% to 5% of GDP a steep ask for Italy, currently spending around 1.5%.
Meloni will return to Rome on Friday, just in time to host Trump’s running mate JD Vance, signaling Italy’s ongoing balancing act between transatlantic diplomacy and European solidarity.
