Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni made an unannounced visit to Mar-a-Lago on Saturday to meet with President-elect Donald Trump, joining the growing list of world leaders connecting with Trump as he prepares to take office later this month.
Meloni spent the evening at Trump’s Florida estate, including attending a private screening of a documentary highlighting John Eastman, a key ally in Trump’s efforts to challenge the 2020 election results.
Meloni, who became Italy’s prime minister in October 2022, is a co-founder of the Brothers of Italy party, known for leading the most right-wing government in Italy since World War II. Trump lavished praise on Meloni during the evening, calling her a leader who has “really taken Europe by storm.”
Key Figures at the Table
The dinner brought together a high-profile group, including Trump’s picks for key administration roles. Senator Marco Rubio, tapped as Secretary of State, Representative Mike Waltz, slated to be National Security Adviser, and Scott Bessent, Trump’s Treasury Secretary nominee, were all in attendance. Tilman Fertitta, Trump’s choice for U.S. Ambassador to Italy, also joined the gathering.
While no details about their discussions were released, Trump downplayed the significance of the meeting, saying, “We’re just having dinner tonight.”
Meloni’s Close Ties with Trump and Musk
This meeting marks Meloni’s second interaction with Trump in recent months. In December, she met with both Trump and Elon Musk during the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. Musk, who has a strong relationship with Meloni, previously headlined a conservative political festival sponsored by Brothers of Italy.
Meloni’s Diplomatic Balancing Act
Meloni is set to meet with President Joe Biden during his upcoming visit to Rome, underscoring her role in maintaining strong ties with leaders across the political spectrum. As the Italian prime minister navigates these relationships, her connection with Trump signals a deepening bond between their administrations.
The dinner at Mar-a-Lago is yet another signal of Trump’s efforts to forge global alliances ahead of his return to the White House.
