ROME, May 8 (V7N) — US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni today, marking the second day of a high-stakes diplomatic mission aimed at mending ties strained by recent criticisms from President Donald Trump.

The meeting at Meloni's office follows a "friendly and constructive" audience between Rubio and Pope Leo XIV—the first-ever American pontiff—whom Trump recently lambasted for his anti-war rhetoric.

Despite Meloni being one of Trump's closest European allies, the relationship has soured over the conflict with Iran. Trump’s Critique: In a recent interview, President Trump expressed "shock" at Meloni's refusal to assist in the Iran war, questioning her courage.Troop Withdrawal Threats: Trump has threatened to withdraw US troops from Italy, claiming Rome has been unhelpful. As of late 2025, Italy hosted over 12,600 active-duty US troops.Meloni’s Defense: The Prime Minister responded by stating that Italy has always "honored all its commitments," particularly within NATO, citing past involvement in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, who also met with Rubio, reaffirmed the necessity of the transatlantic bond while maintaining Italy's right to disagree.

Key Agenda Items: Discussions focused on the Strait of Hormuz (currently blocked by Iran), the conflict in Lebanon, and the ongoing war in Ukraine, where Rome remains a staunch supporter of Kyiv.

Broader Withdrawals: The diplomatic friction in Italy comes as the Pentagon announces the withdrawal of 5,000 troops from Germany and issues similar threats toward Spain.

In a lighter moment during the morning session at the Italian foreign ministry, Tajani presented Rubio—who is Cuban-American—with documents tracing his Italian ancestral origins.

Cultural Diplomacy: Visibly moved, Rubio called it a "true honor" and pledged to learn the language. "The next time I'm back... I'll give a speech 'in Italiano'," he told officials.

The visit remains a delicate balancing act for Rubio, who must navigate the President's "America First" rhetoric while attempting to preserve essential security partnerships in Southern Europe and the Mediterranean.

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