Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is on a consequential visit to Washington this Thursday. She’ll have to try and do the same with former president Donald Trump and face the most divisive issue of all, dangerous European nations tariffing each other to death. Meloni’s visit comes amidst a backdrop of high expectations and skepticism, as she attempts to forge a personal connection with Trump, whom she believes can still be reasoned with despite his often brash negotiating style.
Prior to her trip, Meloni had reached out to Ursula von der Leyen. She was hoping to talk through her schedule as she prepares for upcoming meetings in the U.S. She plays a smart long game by framing her goals in the context of larger EU objectives. Simultaneously, she’s showing that she is willing to play ball on a bilateral basis. The fate of this effort hangs in the balance. Her credibility in Brussels would be at stake, particularly if she were to fail to obtain substantial concessions from Trump.
Meloni’s Controversial Strategy
Meloni’s management of her coalition to combat with Trump has not been without controversy. Critics question whether her personal engagement can yield any meaningful results, especially given Trump’s history of unpredictable policies. Other Meloni allies are sure-footed about her talents. They think she can do better than that European Union’s chief trade negotiator, Maroš Šefčovič. They say that her personal ties to government and extensive Rolodex, not to mention her charm, will give her an advantage in negotiations.
“Politics, like life, is built on personal relationships,” stated Marco Scurria, an Italian senator from Meloni’s Brothers of Italy party. This sentiment reflects Meloni’s belief that establishing rapport with Trump could enable her to navigate the complexities of international trade more effectively.
Meloni has played up the image of herself as the leading voice in the EU calling for a gentler approach to deal with Trump, and his tariffs. For one, her government is coming under increasing pressure from Italian exporters who are dreading the economic impact of new tariffs. Yet her visit is an important opportunity to demonstrate that developing mutual rapport with Trump can achieve outcomes benefitting Europe. Countless others view this moment as one ripe for advancement and cooperation.
The Importance of the Trip
Johann Wadephul, a parliamentarian for Merz’s Christian Democrats, emphasized the significance of Meloni’s visit. He added that it sends a powerful signal to U.S. and EU allies, too. He remarked that this visit would set a positive collaborative tone from Europe with the incoming Trump administration. It represents a big opportunity for a different kind of partnership.
Meloni’s allies are convinced that her personal relationship with Trump would secure Rome the biggest concessions. These concessions would be nearly impossible to achieve through standard diplomatic practice. An anonymous Italian official remarked, “Having Trump’s ear is an asset for the entire European Union.” Building a personal relationship with one of the most powerful players in American politics can provide immeasurable value. This lens demonstrates the importance of these relationships.
Meloni’s visit serves as a platform for reinforcing Italy’s position within the EU and demonstrating its capability to navigate complex international relations independently.
Navigating EU Relations
It’s no surprise that Meloni’s flirtation with Trump has caused concern in other EU capitals. They fear bilateral negotiations that could undermine broader collective EU interests. And as one EU diplomat aptly noted, Member States care only about their self-interests. There’s worry about how such individual engagements might undermine the cohesiveness of the bloc.
“If we are less hysterical, we can work with Washington,” stated another Italian official, emphasizing the need for a pragmatic approach in dealing with Trump’s administration. The EU is clearly waking up to the fact that international diplomacy needs to be done better. This acknowledgement indeed requires greater flexibility and transparency in the way U.S. leadership engages.
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