Trump Escalates Feud With Italy’s PM Giorgia Meloni
A diplomatic row between the United States and Italy has intensified after U.S. President Donald Trump launched a fresh attack on Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni through a social media post.
Trump claimed that Meloni repeatedly requested photographs with him during the recent G7 Summit in France and alleged that her popularity in Italy had declined due to her refusal to support U.S. military efforts aimed at preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons. He also criticized Italy for reportedly denying the use of its airfields and runways for American military logistics during operations involving Iran.
In his post, Trump argued that despite longstanding U.S. security commitments to NATO allies, including Italy, Rome failed to cooperate when Washington sought support. He further suggested that Meloni was now seeking closer ties with the United States to improve her domestic political standing.
The latest remarks come after Meloni publicly rejected Trump's earlier claim that she had "begged" for a photo with him at the G7 Summit. The Italian leader described those comments as "completely fabricated" and expressed astonishment at what she viewed as an attack on a close ally.
The dispute marks a significant deterioration in relations between two leaders who were once considered ideological allies. Analysts say disagreements over U.S. policy toward Iran and broader transatlantic relations have contributed to the growing rift between Washington and Rome.
As the war of words continues, the diplomatic fallout is being closely watched across Europe and within NATO, where concerns remain over alliance unity and future cooperation on security issues.