During a high-profile gathering at the White House, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni was caught on camera rolling her eyes at former President Donald Trump, sparking widespread attention online. The incident occurred as European leaders met to discuss the Russia-Ukraine war and the prospects for a ceasefire.
Leaders from Italy, Germany, and the United Kingdom had flown into the United States for talks following Trump’s earlier meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump had attempted to negotiate a peace deal, though he later admitted the talks had not been successful. The gathering also included NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Finnish President Alexander Stubb, and French President Emmanuel Macron.
During the session, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized the importance of securing a ceasefire. “Let’s try and put pressure on Russia, because the credibility of this effort depends on at least a ceasefire from the beginning of serious negotiations,” he said. Merz went on to suggest a trilateral meeting to advance discussions. While Merz was speaking, Meloni was seen rolling her eyes, drawing attention from observers both in the room and online.
The Italian leader rolled her eyes again as Trump made a joke referencing Italy’s political history. “Italian governments don’t last very long since the country has seen 68 different administrations since World War II,” Trump said, adding, “You’ve lasted a long time, you’re gonna be there a long time.” Meloni nodded at Trump but then appeared to roll her eyes when he looked away, an action that quickly went viral on social media.
Reactions online were varied. Some viewers found the moment humorous, commenting on what they saw as a playful reaction to Trump’s remarks. Others interpreted the gesture as a subtle sign of frustration or exasperation during formal discussions. Some even speculated lightheartedly that it might have been a form of flirtation or a self-conscious tic rather than a display of disrespect.
Regardless of interpretation, the incident captured attention worldwide, demonstrating how even minor gestures during diplomatic meetings can ignite commentary online. The clip circulated widely, highlighting the human side of high-level negotiations and reminding the public that world leaders, like anyone else, display unguarded reactions in tense situations.
