During a Washington summit, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz called for an immediate ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, sparking visible frustration from Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. The exchange went viral on social media, and former U.S. President Donald Trump expressed skepticism about a pause preceding a peace agreement. International leaders weighed in on the delicate negotiations.
Meeting with European Leaders in Washington
On Monday at the White House, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with former U.S. President Donald Trump. Afterwards Washington hosted a meeting of European leaders, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, NATO Secretary‑General Jens Stoltenberg, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and Finnish President Alexander Stubb.
Meloni’s Reaction to Merz’s Words Goes Viral
German Chancellor Merz stated that a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine is indispensable before meaningful negotiations can begin: “The road to complicated negotiations is open, and frankly, we would all welcome a ceasefire.” He added that he could not fathom a next meeting without this basic condition. Many social media users noted Italian Prime Minister Meloni’s impatience as Merz presented his position alongside other leaders. In the video released by Erica Daughety of Florida’s Voice, Meloni repeatedly rolled her eyes or stared at the ceiling—a clip that has been viewed over million times.
Typical Meloni Expression
Although the recording sparked debate about her stance—some viewers hoping it might signal dissent or even support for Ukraine—Meloni reiterated Italy’s backing for Kyiv both in Washington and during subsequent remarks: “Of course, just as from the beginning, you can count on Italy. We are on the side of Ukraine and firmly support your efforts toward peace.” Her expressive gestures had already been noticed during the NATO summit in Las Vegas last month, drawing further commentary from Italian journalists.
Meloni May Postpone Visit Over Ukraine
According to ANSA, the Italian prime minister is reportedly reconsidering a planned visit to the Indo‑Pacific region amid talks on ending the war in Ukraine. She had been scheduled to visit Bangladesh and Singapore in the coming days.
Donald Trump on Ceasefire
During the Monday meeting with President Zelensky, former U.S. President Donald Trump stated that he does not expect a ceasefire before a peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine is reached. He argued that, from a strategic standpoint, either side might be reluctant to temporarily halt hostilities and ceasefire. “I do want a ceasefire, and then they’ll rebuild. The idea of a ceasefire appeals to me because people would stop dying right away, not in two weeks, a week, or however long it takes. But we can negotiate a peace agreement while they fight,” Trump said, noting that such a pause could be strategically disadvantageous for one side or the other.
Source: Gazeta,
