- Trump says a commerce cope with the EU is for certain however insists there’s no rush to finalize it.
- Meloni calls the U.S. a “dependable accomplice” and believes unity is feasible regardless of tensions over tariffs.
- The Trump administration is threatening Harvard’s tax standing and shutting a State Division disinformation workplace.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni sat down with U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday, marking her as the primary European chief to fulfill with him since his sweeping new tariffs went into impact earlier this month. The 2 appeared facet by facet on the White Home, the place Trump signaled that whereas a commerce cope with the EU may be very a lot on the desk, there’s “no rush” to get it completed.
“We’ll attain a deal, one hundred pc,” Trump mentioned. “Sooner or later. However once more—we’re doing simply fantastic within the meantime.”
Meloni, in flip, expressed optimism regardless of the pressure tariffs have positioned on relations. She mentioned she was “positive” a decision may very well be reached and known as america a “dependable accomplice.” It’s price noting that Meloni’s far-right authorities shares a lot of the Trump administration’s ideological stance, which could make her a extra pure go-between for Brussels and Washington.
Tariffs, Income, and Political Alignment
Trump additionally appeared unfazed by the backlash his financial insurance policies have stirred, saying he was happy with the income generated from the tariffs. The duties—initially set at 20% for EU imports—have been quickly paused for 90 days, however haven’t been completely walked again. Whereas Meloni has beforehand voiced criticism over the tariff hikes, she saved her tone diplomatic in the course of the go to.
“We will nonetheless discover unity,” she informed reporters, suggesting that non-public and political alignment between the 2 leaders may assist ease broader tensions.
Trump, for his half, known as Meloni “a beautiful lady” with “robust management,” reinforcing his heat stance towards Italy’s present administration.
Different Trump Administration Strikes
In the meantime, the Trump White Home is making waves on a number of fronts. In a transfer that’s stirred tutorial circles, it’s reportedly threatening to dam Harvard College from enrolling worldwide college students and is exploring revoking the varsity’s tax-exempt standing altogether. No official remark has but been launched, however the message appears loud and clear: play ball or pay up.
Additionally on Thursday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that the State Division shall be shutting down its workplace liable for countering international disinformation—an company that, satirically, has grown extra related in at this time’s digital age.
So yeah, it’s been fairly the week in Washington.