Interpreter's Slip at Trump Meeting Leads to Self-Translation by Meloni

During a meeting at the White House, the interpreter for Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni experienced a significant lapse in communication while translating for former U.S. President Donald Trump. Valentina Maiolini-Rothbacher, the seasoned interpreter, publicly expressed her regret over the incident, calling it one of the most embarrassing moments for someone in her profession.

The incident occurred on Holy Thursday in the Oval Office when, amid the cameras, Maiolini-Rothbacher lost her place in the translation. Recognizing the confusion, Meloni took the initiative to translate her own words to ensure clarity during the important exchange.

Maiolini-Rothbacher later reflected on the situation, emphasizing the pressure of the setting. She acknowledged that Meloni was justified in interrupting her, given the significance of the meeting and the weight of the discussions. Fortunately, she noted that she did not mistakenly convey anything inappropriate, but the experience was nonetheless distressing.

In her explanation, Maiolini-Rothbacher mentioned that it was her first visit to the White House, where the lack of a moderator and the surrounding noise contributed to her confusion. Additionally, she recalled Trump directly urging her to continue, which may have further unsettled her during the proceedings.

In international diplomacy, interpreters play a crucial role, often accompanying leaders to ensure language barriers do not hinder communication. Although many politicians have proficiency in English, they frequently prefer to speak in their native languages during formal appearances, as was the case with Meloni in this instance.

Maiolini-Rothbacher is known for her extensive experience in interpretation, having participated in numerous high-profile summits and meetings. The pressure of translating in real-time for world leaders is immense, and lapses can occur even among the most skilled professionals.

The incident has sparked discussions about the complexities and challenges faced by interpreters in high-stakes environments. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the reliance on interpreters in diplomatic discussions reinforces their vital role in facilitating international relations.