Trump Ally and Melania's Matchmaker Fired from Envoy Role After State Department Feud

Paolo Zampolli, a personal friend of the Trumps and former modeling agent credited with introducing President Donald Trump to First Lady Melania, has been removed from his role as special envoy for global partnerships. The dismissal occurred on Thursday, following a contentious monthslong email feud with Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau, according to a report.

In one exchange, Landau instructed Zampolli to "immediately stop all work on ANY issues not directly tied to cultural diplomacy." The dispute centered on Zampolli's duties, with Landau asserting that Zampolli had "no authority to engage in ANY issues of foreign policy outside of cultural diplomacy" and accusing him of intending to pursue "unauthorized and possibly unlawful ventures in commercial and economic matters."

Zampolli, who was appointed to his State Department position in March 2025, reacted to his reported dismissal by stating, "the President is always right." He also noted that his special envoy appointment, typically for one year, had been extended by Trump for over six months. "President Trump changed my life once. He just did it again," Zampolli said, adding that his return to business and "closing deals" marked a "next chapter."

An unnamed U.S. official confirmed to Politico that Zampolli's status had been terminated and he is "no longer a government employee." Zampolli expressed "absolute zero surprise" at the outcome after his emails with Landau became public, claiming Landau had been "attacking me from Day 1" and attempting to "destroy" his work. He maintained that only President Trump could appoint or dismiss him from the role, emphasizing his loyalty.

When Zampolli was named special envoy, Trump stated he would work to "advance America's interests on the global stage." Zampolli, prior to his government role, was known for his business and modeling agency work and for introducing the Trumps in 1998. He had also served on the Kennedy Center's board of trustees during Trump's first presidency. Reports indicate Zampolli had called on the State Department Inspector General to investigate Landau, though it is unclear if that occurred. Landau, in turn, had urged Zampolli to cease sending "unhinged emails."