Watch PM Meloni Roll Eyes, Check Imaginary Watch as Biden Runs Late for NATO Summit

In an unexpected but viral moment at the NATO Summit in Washington, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni displayed visible frustration as she waited for President Joe Biden, who arrived 40 minutes late. 

The video of Meloni dramatically rolling her eyes and checking an imaginary watch has captivated social media, becoming a symbol of the mounting exasperation among world leaders with Biden’s tardiness.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni appears irritated as she rolls her eyes and checks imaginary watch while waiting for Biden’s late arrival before starting the NATO summit in Washington DC.

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— Oli London (@OliLondonTV) July 11, 2024

The incident occurred on the third day of the NATO Summit. As the scheduled 10 a.m. start time came and went, Meloni was seen conversing with Finnish President Alexander Stubb. 

She gestured to her wrist, emphasizing her lack of a watch, and rolled her eyes, clearly expressing her impatience. 

A fellow attendee checked the time on his phone, which prompted another eye roll and scowl from Meloni before she realized the cameras were capturing her every move.

The New York Post quickly picked up on the incident, sharing the video on social media where it garnered significant attention. 

A Financial Times reporter also commented on Meloni’s “top eye-rolling form,” further amplifying the incident's reach.

Biden, accompanied by NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, eventually commenced the day’s sessions at around 10:40 a.m., significantly behind schedule. 

The White House rescheduled Biden’s solo press conference, originally planned for earlier in the day, to 6:30 p.m.

This isn’t the first time Meloni and Biden have had awkward interactions. 

At the G7 summit in Italy’s Puglia region last month, Biden left Meloni waiting onstage, greeting her with an awkward salute upon his arrival. 

Meloni, attempting to lighten the mood, jokingly told Biden, “You shouldn’t leave a woman waiting like this.” Later, she had to guide him back to a skydiving demonstration after he wandered off.

Biden’s frequent gaffes and delays have sparked discussions about his age and fitness for office. 

Meloni’s candid reactions, captured in these viral moments, resonate with many on social media who share her frustration. 

The incidents highlight not only the logistical challenges of international summits but

Meloni’s eye roll and imaginary watch check will undoubtedly remain a memorable highlight, symbolizing the human element behind the formalities of international diplomacy.