Meloni: 'Sincerely impressed' by Trump, but Italy's foreign policy unchanged

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said she was "sincerely impressed" by Donald Trump, but insisted Italy's foreign policy would not change. Meloni's remarks came after various media reports and alleged viral videos depicted her attitude toward Trump as assertive, with some suggesting it was a ploy to distract from Iran negotiations and NATO issues.

Meloni dismissed these interpretations, stating she had no intention of fueling further confrontation. "I don't change my mind, Italian foreign policy will be that of the last 80 years: maintaining a solid relationship between the US and the EU is what the strength of the West is based on," she asserted. She expressed confidence that relations between Italy and the US remain strong, citing decades of cooperation that cannot be erased by social media discussions.

She pointed to recent institutional and economic ties, including a visit by Defense Minister Guido Crosetto to Washington and growth in Italian exports despite U.S. tariffs. Meloni also mentioned that Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani's decision to cancel a U.S. mission was a signal, but unnecessary to pursue further once the message was sent. She emphasized that bilateral relations with the United States should return to normal.

Meloni further commented on the complexity of foreign policy, likening its portrayal in memes to a reality TV show like "Temptation Island." She stressed the need to restore foreign policy discussions to their appropriate depth. Additionally, she highlighted Italy's significant role in Lebanon and its potential to play a leading part in parallel negotiations between Lebanon and Israel, a topic she intended to discuss with French President Macron.