Giorgia Meloni courts Trump with shared rhetoric amid underlying tensions
Department of Research, Studies and International News 18-04-2025
During her recent visit to Washington, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni was warmly welcomed by President Donald Trump, in what seemed like a meeting of ideological minds. Emphasizing shared values and mutual respect, Meloni sought to align herself with Trump’s worldview, speaking of a common civilizational mission rather than geographical alliances.
The Italian leader, whose Brothers of Italy party carries post-fascist roots, highlighted a concept she termed “western nationalism,” suggesting it as a unifying force capable of bridging economic disputes, such as trade tariffs, between allies. She acknowledged that the phrase might be unconventional, but her core message was clear: a desire to reinforce a shared cultural identity between Europe and the U.S.
In remarks delivered in confident English, Meloni appealed to Trump and his administration by condemning “woke” culture and ideologies she claimed threatened historical and cultural heritage. Though she stumbled over acronyms, possibly confusing DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion), her intent resonated with her American counterparts.
Meloni has previously been dubbed “Europe’s Trump whisperer” for her ability to engage with Trump in a way few European leaders can. She has visited his Mar-a-Lago estate and was the sole European invitee at his presidential inauguration earlier in the year.
The Oval Office meeting initially proceeded smoothly, with Trump appearing engaged and relaxed, even as he launched into familiar criticisms of President Biden, the Federal Reserve, and judicial decisions hindering his policies. The atmosphere shifted slightly when a journalist asked Meloni a question in Italian about Trump’s stance on the war in Ukraine.
Caught off guard, Meloni hesitated before answering. With Trump listening closely, her interpreter relayed the question: what did she think about Trump blaming Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for the war? Recognizing the political sensitivity, especially given her continued support for Ukraine, Meloni responded carefully, promising to increase Italy’s NATO contributions, still below the alliance’s minimum target.
Trump, in an apparent softening of previous rhetoric, clarified that he didn’t blame Zelenskyy directly, though he expressed dissatisfaction with Ukraine’s wartime leadership. Predictably, he pointed to Biden as the real culprit and avoided criticizing Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Despite this awkward exchange, the conversation soon pivoted to familiar terrain, immigration, and the two leaders resumed their shared messaging.
