US Vice President Vance Visits Milan Ahead of 2026 Olympics

Vance meets with Italian PM Meloni, attends Olympic hockey game amid tight security measures

Published on Feb. 5, 2026

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US Vice President J.D. Vance arrived in Milan, Italy on February 6, 2026 with his family, ahead of the 2026 Winter Olympics. Vance's visit combines attendance at Olympic events with high-level political discussions with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, covering topics such as the Middle East, Ukraine, and US-European economic relations. The visit is under extensive security, with a large motorcade, over 300 personnel, and a partially reserved hotel serving as a US government headquarters.

Why it matters

Milan is hosting the 2026 Winter Olympics, making it a global spotlight. Vance's visit combines the excitement of the games with crucial diplomatic discussions, highlighting the geopolitical importance of the event. The security measures also demonstrate the sensitivity of such high-profile visits, especially in the lead-up to a major international event.

The details

Beyond the Olympic events, Vance is scheduled to meet with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni at the Palazzo della Prefettura to discuss pressing international issues. The Vice President and his family also attended the opening Olympic women's hockey game between the USA and the Czech Republic. The security surrounding Vance's visit is extensive, with a motorcade of 45 vehicles, an additional 30 vehicles for the Secretary of State, and over 300 personnel involved in securing the Vice President's movements. Vance is staying at the Hotel Gallia near Milan's Central Station, which has been partially reserved as a US government headquarters.

  • Vice President Vance arrived at Malpensa Airport on February 6, 2026.
  • Vance is scheduled to meet with Italian Prime Minister Meloni on February 6, 2026.
  • Vance and his family attended the opening Olympic women's hockey game on February 6, 2026.

The players

J.D. Vance

The current Vice President of the United States.

Giorgia Meloni

The Prime Minister of Italy.

Marco Rubio

The current Secretary of State of the United States.

Emmanuel Macron

The President of France.

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What’s next

To avoid any diplomatic incidents, adjustments are being considered, potentially involving seating Vice President Vance near representatives from Salt Lake City.

The takeaway

Vice President Vance's visit to Milan ahead of the 2026 Winter Olympics highlights the geopolitical importance of major international sporting events, as they bring together global leaders for both ceremonial and substantive discussions on pressing issues.