Newyork/Rome: Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, once regarded as one of US President Donald Trump’s closest allies in Europe, has publicly rebuked him amid a growing diplomatic dispute that has strained ties between Washington and Rome.
Meloni had positioned herself as a bridge between Europe and the Trump administration and was the only European leader to attend Trump’s presidential inauguration in January 2025. However, relations between the two leaders began deteriorating following disagreements over the Middle East conflict, particularly the Iran war, and have since spiraled into a public feud.
The latest flashpoint came after Trump claimed that Meloni repeatedly sought a photograph with him during the recent G7 summit in France, suggesting she was attempting to boost her popularity at home. Trump later reiterated the allegation on social media, asserting that the Italian leader wanted to repair ties with him for political gain.
“Italian Prime Minister Gigiorgia Meloni asked, over and over, for a picture with me during the G-7 meeting in France. She is doing poorly in Italy with her level of popularity, possibly because she turned down the United States of America, a Country that truly loves and protects Italy, when it came to denying Iran from obtaining or developing a Nuclear Weapon (But so did NATO, for that matter!). She wouldn’t even let us use Italy’s landing strips or runways, a great logistical inconvenience, and this despite the fact the U.S. contributes hundreds of Billions of Dollars a year to protect Italy, and other “so-called” NATO Allies. Now, after the United States defeated Iran militarily, she wants to be friends again in order to get her “numbers up.” No thanks!!! President DJT,” Trump posted on Truth Social.
Meloni strongly rejected the claims, describing them as fabricated and “senseless attacks.” In a sharp response, she told Trump to focus on his own popularity rather than hers, noting that her political standing in Italy remained strong. She also stressed that her government’s decisions were guided by Italy’s national interests and sovereignty.
The dispute has also exposed broader policy differences. Trump has criticized Italy’s refusal to allow US military bases on Italian soil to be used in operations linked to the conflict with Iran, while Meloni has defended Rome’s position and insisted that existing agreements and Italy’s sovereign decisions must be respected.
The row has triggered strong reactions within Italy. Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani cancelled a planned trip to the United States, calling Trump’s remarks offensive to Italy. Several Italian political leaders, including members of Meloni’s own coalition, rallied behind the prime minister and condemned the comments.
Observers say the clash marks a dramatic breakdown in what was once viewed as one of Trump’s strongest relationships with a major European leader. The public exchange has raised concerns about the future of US-Italy relations and highlighted growing tensions between Washington and some of its traditional allies.
