In a social media post, President Trump asserted that PM Meloni repeatedly sought a photo with him during the G7 summit in France, despite her earlier refusal to support the US stance on preventing Iran from acquiring or developing nuclear weapons.
President Trump also claimed that Italy had denied the United States access to its landing strips and runways during the conflict. He broadened his criticism to NATO allies, contending that several nations had not supported Washington’s approach to Iran.
The US president further stated that PM Meloni’s position changed following what he referred to as America’s military triumph over Iran, implying that the Italian leader was trying to strengthen ties with Washington to enhance her domestic approval.
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The comments represent the latest chapter in a growing public dispute between President Trump and PM Meloni, as Italy has pushed back against his assertions that she sought a photo opportunity with him during the G7 meeting. Trump made his remarks in an interview aired Friday morning on the La7 network.
On Friday, June 19, Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani canceled a planned visit to the United States, labeling President Trump’s comments as “serious and offensive” not only to the Prime Minister but to Italy as a whole.
PM Meloni herself denied the allegation, stating that the US President’s account was completely false. In a video message, she expressed the need to respond promptly and accused Trump of fabricating the story.
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(Edited by : Asmita Pant)
