A public war of words has erupted between U.S. President Donald Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni after Trump claimed that the Italian leader repeatedly sought photographs with him during the recent G7 Summit in France. Trump alleged that Meloni was eager to be seen with him because her popularity in Italy was declining.
In a series of remarks posted on social media, Trump asserted that Meloni had requested photos with him numerous times and suggested that she was now attacking him because of political difficulties at home. He criticized her for refusing to support the United States during the conflict with Iran and claimed that Italy had denied the use of its airfields and runways for American military operations. Trump further argued that despite the United States spending vast amounts to protect NATO allies, Italy had failed to support Washington at a critical time.
The U.S. President also suggested that Meloni sought a close relationship with him to boost her standing among Italian voters. Trump said that she had wanted a photograph with him “so badly” during the summit and claimed he had agreed out of sympathy rather than necessity.
Meloni strongly rejected the allegations, calling Trump’s comments false and unnecessary. In a statement posted on social media, the Italian Prime Minister said the repeated attacks were senseless and insisted that her popularity depended on her ability to defend Italy’s national interests rather than her relationship with any foreign leader.
Responding directly to Trump’s criticism, Meloni said that being friendly with the American President had not increased her popularity and that her political standing was none of his concern. She suggested that Trump should focus instead on his own popularity.
The dispute escalated after Trump repeated the claims during an interview with an Italian television channel, saying he had no obligation to speak with Meloni and that she had been eager to take photographs with him. He claimed he only agreed because he felt sorry for her.
Meloni expressed astonishment at the remarks and accused Trump of making up stories and treating allies disrespectfully. She said it was unfortunate that he appeared more confrontational with friends and allies than with adversaries of the West. Emphasizing Italy’s independence and dignity, she declared that neither she nor Italy had ever begged anyone.
The exchange marks one of the most public and personal disagreements between the two leaders and highlights growing tensions within Western alliances at a time of heightened geopolitical uncertainty.