President Trump met with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni at the White House on April 17, 2025, to discuss trade, technology cooperation, and defense spending. The meeting is seen as an opportunity to strengthen relations between the U.S. and Italy, as well as to address broader issues between the U.S. and the European Union.
A U.S. official highlighted the "very special relationship" between Trump and Meloni, noting their intent to collaborate on issues like trade, the conflict in Ukraine, and critical technology development. Meloni is considered by some as a potential bridge between the Trump administration and the EU.
Defense spending was also a key topic, with the U.S. urging Italy to meet the NATO target of spending 2% of GDP on defense. Italy has been working towards this goal, with recent statements indicating they will meet the target this year. Discussions also included potential adjustments to accounting criteria for defense spending.