Former U.S. President Donald Trump recently made statements regarding Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, claiming she “begged” for a photo with him during the G7 summit. Meloni has categorically denied these assertions, labeling them as “completely fabricated.”
In an interview with the Italian broadcaster La7, Trump stated, “She begged me to take a picture with her! She wanted so badly to take a picture with me. I wouldn’t have even agreed, but I felt sorry for her! She’s probably happy that I talked to her! I wasn’t obligated to speak with her.” These remarks have sparked significant backlash from Italian officials.
Meloni responded to Trump’s claims by emphasizing that neither she nor Italy would ever resort to begging. She expressed her astonishment at Trump’s behavior towards allies, stating, “Donald Trump’s statements are completely made up. Frankly, I am shocked. I do not understand why the President of the United States behaves this way towards his allies. This is not the first time it has happened. I can only say — it’s a pity that he does not show the same resolve towards the enemies of the West, the enemies of the United States, leaders to whom he, on the contrary, seems much more accommodating. But he should remember one thing: Italy and I never beg.”
In light of Trump’s comments, Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani announced the cancellation of his upcoming visit to the United States, scheduled for June 21 and 22. He stated, “Serious and offensive remarks made by President Trump towards Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni insult all of Italy. For this reason, I have decided to cancel my visit to the United States.”
Defense Minister Guido Crosetto also defended Meloni, describing Trump’s comments as a “failed joke” that benefits no one. He remarked, “I cannot imagine Giorgia Meloni asking anyone for a photo, even under duress. Instead, I can imagine how difficult it was for her to dismiss what Trump said a few weeks ago for the sake of Italy, Europe, and the West. And I can imagine how challenging it will be for her not to comment on this new blunder by the President of the United States as it deserves.”
Crosetto characterized Trump’s statements as unhelpful, asserting that such jokes do not serve the interests of the United States, Italy, or NATO. Notably, Meloni has been one of the few European leaders who received Trump’s favorable attention since his return to the White House.
Earlier this year, on April 14, Trump had accused Meloni of being unwilling to support the U.S. war against Iran and of not facilitating the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
Donald Trump's recent claims about Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni have led to significant diplomatic fallout, with Meloni and other Italian officials strongly refuting his statements. The controversy has resulted in the cancellation of a planned visit by Italy's Foreign Minister to the U.S.