In a moment brimming with potential, former President Donald Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni have ignited enthusiasm for a prospective trade deal between the United States and Europe during Meloni's visit to Washington.

Trump confidently proclaimed, "There will be a trade deal, 100%, but it will be a fair deal." Meloni echoed his optimism, declaring she was "sure" an agreement could be reached, emphasizing her goal to "make the West great again." This visit marks Meloni as the first European leader to meet with Trump since the controversial 20% tariffs were introduced on EU imports.

Aiming to serve as a pivotal link between the fractured EU and US relations, Meloni appears intent on addressing growing concerns regarding the global implications of Trump's tariffs.

Their Oval Office discussion touched on key topics like defense spending, immigration, and tariffs, presenting a relaxed and amiable atmosphere. This encounter resembled the warm reception that UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer enjoyed during his February visit.

However, Meloni's aides characterized the meeting as a "commercial peace mission," especially in light of Trump's recent introduction of a 10% baseline tariff on various foreign imports.

Trump's critiques of the European Union have been sharp, calling it an organization "formed to screw the United States." Although a retaliation tariff has been temporarily suspended until July, Meloni has expressed her discontent with such tariffs, arguing they harm both the EU and the US.

While concrete outcomes on tariffs remained elusive during their discussions, Meloni did manage to secure an invitation for Trump to visit Rome. This visit would present an opportunity for Trump to engage with other European leaders, and could be a significant diplomatic win for Meloni, particularly if it facilitates a meeting with European Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen.

As she prepares to return to Europe, Meloni looks set to strengthen her image as the "Trump whisperer"—a title likely to be reinforced by her upcoming meeting with US Vice President JD Vance in Rome.

Throughout her interactions, Meloni positioned herself closely with Trump’s ideologies, denouncing "woke ideology" and endorsing a robust stance against illegal immigration. She proudly reflected on her own government’s accomplishments, highlighting a stabilizing Italian economy with decreasing inflation and increasing employment.

With a friendly nod to Trump, she quipped, "Forgive me if I promote my country, but you're a businessman and you understand me.” Trump smiled, perhaps recognizing the potential for mutual benefit.