Meloni meets Trump April 17 for tariff talks

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is scheduled to meet U.S. President Donald Trump on April 17 to discuss contentious tariffs affecting European Union imports. Meloni has expressed support for EU calls for a negotiated solution to the 25% tariffs on steel, aluminum, and cars, as well as broader tariffs on nearly all other goods, emphasizing that a trade war would not benefit either side. She aims to address these issues while balancing Italy's strong economic ties to the EU and its significant trade surplus with the U.S. Additionally, Meloni plans to utilize $11 billion in EU funds to support businesses affected by the tariffs. Meanwhile, EU ministers are working on sanctions against Russia and discussing various geopolitical issues, though Hungary's veto may complicate these efforts. Italy's economic strategy is being reassessed in light of the crisis, with a focus on enhancing productivity and competitiveness.