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Meloni Meets Trump to Push EU-US Tariff Deal as EU Unity Concerns Grow

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni seeks to mediate US-EU trade tensions during her Washington visit, advocating a zero-for-zero tariff deal while addressing EU concerns about her independent diplomacy.

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Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni looks on as she attends the "master of the art of Italian cuisine award" ceremony at Palazzo Chigi, in Rome, Italy, April 2, 2025. REUTERS/Remo Casilli/File Photo
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Overview

  • Giorgia Meloni is meeting with Donald Trump in Washington to negotiate a zero-for-zero tariff deal aimed at eliminating reciprocal industrial tariffs between the US and the EU.
  • The visit comes during a 90-day pause on US tariffs, providing a window for potential negotiations but raising concerns among EU leaders about maintaining bloc unity.
  • Meloni has coordinated her efforts with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, though some EU officials worry her independent approach could undermine collective EU interests.
  • Italy's significant €40 billion trade surplus with the US adds domestic pressure on Meloni to secure favorable trade terms for Italian exporters.
  • Following her meeting with Trump, Meloni will host US Vice President JD Vance in Rome, continuing discussions on trade, defense, and shared conservative ideological priorities.