Overview

• Giorgia Meloni is meeting with Donald Trump in Washington to advocate for scrapping reciprocal transatlantic tariffs during a 90-day tariff pause initiated by the US president.
• The Italian prime minister is promoting a 'zero-for-zero' trade agreement, aiming to create one of the largest integrated economic trading zones in the world.
• EU leaders have expressed concerns that Meloni’s independent diplomatic efforts could undermine the bloc’s unified stance in trade negotiations with the US.
• Domestically, Meloni faces challenges balancing her right-wing base's alignment with Trump and the need to maintain Italy’s commitments to the EU and its policies.
• Following her Washington visit, Meloni will return to Rome for discussions with US Vice President JD Vance, further highlighting her role in navigating complex transatlantic relationships.