- Trump accuses Meloni of trying to mend ties with Washington.
- Meloni criticizes Trump for “constant, unprovoked” attacks.
- “My popularity isn’t your concern,” Meloni tells Trump.
WASHINGTON: Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni responded sharply to U.S. President Donald Trump on Saturday, describing his repeated, unprovoked insults as “nonsensical” following his escalation of a diplomatic dispute by claiming she repeatedly sought a photo opportunity with him.
This exchange has created a rare personal rift between Trump and one of Europe’s leading right-wing figures, who has presented herself as a bridge between America and Europe during Trump’s resurgence in power.
Initially, Trump told Italian broadcaster La7 that Meloni “begged” him for a picture at this week’s G7 summit in France, asserting he only agreed because he “felt sorry for her.”
Meloni strongly denied this, calling it “fabricated,” but Trump reaffirmed the claim in a post on Truth Social, alleging she repeatedly asked for a photo during the gathering.
He also accused her of attempting to repair relations with the U.S. for domestic political gains after Italy did not support U.S. action against Iran.
“Now, after the United States defeated Iran militarily, she wants to be friends again to boost her approval ratings. No thanks!!!” Trump wrote.
He suggested Meloni’s declining popularity in Italy might be linked to her refusal to allow U.S. military landings on Italian soil during the Iran conflict.
Trump also reiterated his longstanding criticism of U.S. defense spending for NATO allies, claiming that Washington contributes hundreds of billions to safeguard Italy and others.
In a vigorous reply on Instagram, Meloni accused Trump of relentless, senseless attacks and stated her popularity isn’t based on her relationship with him.
“Being your friend has certainly not helped, nor does it influence my standing,” she wrote.
She dismissed Trump’s criticism about the use of U.S. military bases in Italy, affirming that all were used according to agreements Rome had honored.
“Ultimately, my popularity isn’t your business. I suggest you focus on your own,” she added.