Italian PM Meloni to Meet Trump as Trade Tensions Rise

Meloni's April 17 visit to Washington aims to address U.S. tariffs on EU goods while her unilateral approach raises concerns over European unity.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is scheduled to meet U.S. President Donald Trump on April 17 to negotiate over newly imposed 20 percent tariffs on EU goods.
Meloni announced plans to repurpose up to 25 billion euros from EU funds to support Italian businesses impacted by the tariffs, subject to European Commission approval.
French officials have criticized Meloni's solo meeting with Trump, warning it could weaken the EU's unified stance against U.S. trade measures.
Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani emphasized Italy's strong relationship with the Trump administration as a potential advantage in securing a favorable outcome.
Polling shows that 63 percent of Italians view Trump unfavorably, increasing domestic pressure on Meloni to achieve meaningful tariff relief during the talks.