Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni met with US President-elect Donald Trump on Saturday at his golf club in Florida.

The informal meeting occurred just days before Meloni is set to host outgoing President Joe Biden in Rome during his official visit to Italy and the Vatican from January 9 to 12.

During the gathering, Trump praised Meloni, calling her a "fantastic woman." The two reportedly had dinner together before joining a group that included potential members of Trump’s future administration, such as Secretary of State nominee Marco Rubio and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, to watch a movie.

Meloni’s visit marks one of the first by a foreign leader to Trump’s estate in Florida following his election victory in November. Both leaders have previously expressed mutual admiration, and their meeting is seen as a significant step in solidifying Meloni’s role as a key European ally to the US president-elect.

Observers believe Meloni could play a pivotal role in mediating tensions between Trump and other European leaders. Trump has previously threatened to impose tariffs on European goods, reduce NATO funding, and curtail support for Ukraine in its ongoing war with Russia. Analysts expect these topics were central to discussions during the meeting, though no formal agenda has been disclosed.

Another pressing issue likely discussed was the recent arrest of prominent Italian journalist Cecilia Sala in Iran. Sala’s detention follows Italy’s arrest of an Iranian national at the request of the United States, where he is accused of supplying drone components to Tehran. Iran has a history of detaining foreigners to leverage exchanges for monetary or political concessions.

Meloni’s government has been vocal about securing Sala’s release, with the situation drawing increased international attention due to its timing and the broader geopolitical context.

Since his election victory, Trump has reiterated calls for European nations to increase their financial contributions to Ukraine’s defense against Russian aggression. He has also hinted at the possibility of reducing American aid to Ukraine once he takes office, further straining transatlantic relations.

The meeting underscores Trump’s efforts to shape his foreign policy team and establish a rapport with key allies ahead of his inauguration. For Meloni, the encounter signals her intention to position Italy as a prominent intermediary between the US and Europe during what is expected to be a turbulent period in international relations. (ILKHA)