Trump in ‘no rush’ to lift tariffs as countries seek new trade deals – National

President Donald Trump stated on Thursday that he is not in a hurry to make any trade deals due to the revenue generated by tariffs. However, he suggested during a meeting with Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni that reaching agreements with the European Union and other countries would be straightforward.

While the administration has mentioned receiving offers from other nations and the possibility of securing 90 deals during the 90-day tariff pause, the President downplayed the idea of an expedited timeline. He emphasized that any agreements would happen "at a certain point" and that the US has leverage because other countries are eager to access American consumers.

Meloni’s meeting with Trump serves as a test of her ability to act as a liaison between the EU and the United States. As the first European leader to engage in face-to-face discussions with him since the announcement and subsequent partial suspension of 20% tariffs on European exports, Meloni’s role is crucial in navigating the evolving trade war.

The European Union considers its trade relationship with the US as the most significant globally, with annual trade amounting to 1.6 trillion euros (US$1.8 trillion). While the Trump administration aims to use tariffs to initiate trade negotiations that sideline China, the President insists that both rivals and allies have taken advantage of the US in trade deals.

Trade negotiations fall under the EU Commission’s jurisdiction, which is advocating for a zero-for-zero tariff agreement with Washington. Despite talks with EU officials, the Trump administration has not shown signs of wavering on the President’s demand for a 10% baseline tariff on all foreign imports. The initial 20% tariff on EU products was paused for 90 days to allow for negotiations.

Meloni’s primary focus is on understanding Trump’s objectives rather than making concessions. As a leader of a far-right party, she shares ideological similarities with Trump on certain issues but demonstrates contrasting views on topics like Ukraine and defense spending.

Although there are differences in opinions, Meloni is seen by some in the US administration as a crucial link to Europe during a challenging period for trans-Atlantic relations. The meeting between Trump and Meloni will explore not only how Italy can open its marketplace but also how it can assist with broader European relations.

The discussion between the two leaders will likely touch on the conflict in Ukraine and Italy’s potential role in postwar reconstruction efforts. Trump may urge Meloni to increase Italy’s defense spending to meet NATO’s target of two percent of GDP, as its current spending is below the threshold.

In the midst of escalating tariff wars and global uncertainty, the meeting between Trump and Meloni holds significance for both nations. The Italian economy heavily relies on exports to the US, particularly in sectors like food, wine, and luxury fashion. The ongoing trade tensions have already impacted Italy’s growth forecast for the year.

While there are hopes for progress in trade discussions, experts caution against expecting immediate results. The meeting serves as an opportunity for both leaders to lay the groundwork for future relations on trade, defense, and Ukraine policy.

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