ROME: Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Saturday sharply criticized US President Donald Trump after he accused her of repeatedly seeking a photograph with him during the recent G7 summit, deepening an increasingly personal diplomatic dispute between the two leaders.
The exchange marks a significant deterioration in relations between Trump and one of Europe’s most influential conservative leaders, who had previously positioned herself as a key bridge between Washington and European capitals.
The controversy began when Trump told Italian television network La7 that Meloni had “begged” him for a photograph during the G7 summit in France and claimed he agreed only because he “felt sorry for her.”
Meloni immediately rejected the allegation, describing it as fabricated. However, Trump later reinforced his claim in a post on social media, alleging that the Italian prime minister repeatedly requested a photograph and was attempting to improve relations with Washington for domestic political reasons.
Trump further criticized Italy’s stance during the recent conflict involving Iran, accusing Meloni of refusing to allow the United States access to Italian military facilities and claiming her popularity at home was declining.
“Now, after the United States defeated Iran militarily, she wants to be friends again in order to get her numbers up,” Trump wrote.
In a strongly worded response posted on Instagram, Meloni accused Trump of launching “constant, unprovoked and senseless attacks” and dismissed suggestions that her political standing depended on her relationship with the US president.
“My popularity is none of your concern. I suggest you focus on yours,” Meloni said.
The Italian leader also defended her government’s handling of military agreements with the United States, stressing that Italy had fully respected its international commitments.
The dispute has sparked a strong reaction across Italy’s political establishment. Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani cancelled a planned trip to the United States, describing Trump’s remarks as offensive to both Meloni and the Italian people.
Justice Minister Carlo Nordio called the comments a “painful injury” to relations between Rome and Washington, while Defence Minister Guido Crosetto said such exchanges served no useful purpose.
The clash comes at a sensitive time for transatlantic relations, as European leaders continue to navigate differences with Washington over a range of international issues, including security policy and ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine.
Despite previously maintaining cordial ties, relations between Trump and Meloni have shown signs of strain in recent months. Observers say the latest public exchange represents the most serious confrontation between the two leaders to date.
