Trump Denies 'Parasites' Remark About Europeans Amid Tense Press Conference with Italian PM:

In March of 2025, an Atlantic article claimed that there were supposed internal communications in the Trump administration that referred to Europe as "parasites" during the deliberations of Yemen airstrike- this fueled the concern from an Italian journalist. During a joint press conference at The White House, American President Trump alongside the Italian journalist did not hold back on confronting Trump's claims. Stand together with me here, I never called any Europeans parasites now did I."

Before Trump had the chance to respond, Giorgia Meloni echoed, "No, he never said that,” which was swiftly followed by Trump saying, “I’ve never said that, I don’t even know what you are all talking about."

Giorgia Meloni is having the time of her life ????????
pic.twitter.com/0n1W4lmiTa
— aka (@akafaceUS) April 17, 2025

Diplomatic Collaboration Amidst Strained Relations
Despite the moment of tension above, the press focused on the new developments surrounding trade and economic relations in the “EU-US relations” section of the agenda. Even with the newly issued 20% tariff on EU imports, Trump appears optimistic in forging an accord with the bloc: “A pact with the EU is 100 percent possible,” he assured.

Certainly, Meloni remarked, stressing the great potential for cooperation that is present. She also issued a challenge for Trump to visit Rome where other EU leaders will participate in discussions.

European Response and Other Political Repercussions

Trump has called out the EU in the past, restating his point that the union is an economic parasite on America’s economy. Nevertheless, he still feels there is ‘no rush’ concerning a new deal. “Everyone wants to make a deal — and if they don’t, we’ll go ahead and make the deal for them,” he continued.

The unilateral diplomacy has attracted some concern in Europe as well. France’s Industry Minister gave a shout-out warning that Meloni could undermine the existing cooperation of the EU.

She will be returning to Rome on Friday where she will meet with US VP JD Vance. The tensions concerning trade are of particular relevance for Italian industries, given that Italy ships about 10 percent of its goods to the US.