Desk: Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Saturday strongly rejected US President Donald Trump’s criticism, calling his remarks “constant, unprovoked attacks” after he alleged that she repeatedly sought photo opportunities with him and was attempting to improve her domestic popularity through ties with the United States.
In a post on Instagram, Meloni dismissed Trump’s claims and said her political standing does not depend on personal relations with foreign leaders but on her government’s ability to defend Italy’s national interests.
“President Trump, these constant, unprovoked attacks are senseless. As for my popularity, being your friend certainly has not helped it, nor does it depend on my relationship with you. My popularity depends on my ability to defend Italy’s national interest, and that is exactly what I have always done,” she wrote.
She also addressed Trump’s comments regarding US military bases in Italy, stressing that their use is governed by long-standing agreements that her government has always respected and will continue to uphold.
“That is also what I did regarding the American military bases in Italy. Their use is governed by agreements that we have always respected, and that cannot be violated as long as I am Prime Minister,” she said.
Reaffirming Italy’s position, Meloni stated that her country remains fully sovereign and rejected any suggestion that external opinions could influence its political decisions. “In any case, my popularity is none of your concern,” she added, advising Trump to focus on his own political standing.
The exchange comes after Trump made a series of sharp remarks on his platform Truth Social, claiming that Meloni had repeatedly asked for a photograph with him during the G7 summit in France and suggesting that she was attempting to use him to boost her popularity at home.
Trump further alleged that Italy had not supported US military objectives related to Iran and criticized NATO allies, saying the United States contributes heavily to their security. He also claimed that Italy had denied the US access to its military airfields for operations.
In a separate interview with Italian broadcaster La7, Trump reiterated his claim, saying Meloni had “begged” for a photo opportunity and that he agreed out of sympathy.
“Meloni? She begged me for a photo; I felt sorry for her,” Trump said.
The comments have sparked political reactions in Italy and added strain to the already tense rhetorical exchange between the two leaders.
