After US President Donald Trump’s remarks about Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni sparked a diplomatic dispute between Washington and Rome, Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Infrastructure, Matteo Salvini, stood by the Prime Minister, emphasizing the government’s unity. Salvini stressed that any attack on the Prime Minister is an attack on the entire government and Italy, affirming that this does not harm the relationship between the two friendly nations. The friction between Trump and Meloni arose from the President’s accusations that she had “begged” for a photo at the G7 Summit and was “absent from the Strait of Hormuz.”
The US President’s comments led to a swift response from Meloni, who refuted the claims on social media, labeling them as fabricated and expressing surprise at Trump’s behavior towards allies. The situation prompted Italian President Sergio Mattarella to express solidarity with the Prime Minister and cancel Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani’s visit to the US, condemning Trump’s remarks as “serious and offensive to all of Italy.” Tajani, in response, called off his upcoming trip to the United States in light of the situation.
In an exclusive interview, Trump alleged that Meloni had requested a photo with him at the G7 Summit, stating that he obliged out of pity. He further criticized Europe’s stance on energy and immigration, warning that failure to address these issues could have lasting consequences for the continent. The President’s remarks have stirred tensions between the US and Italy, prompting reactions from various officials and escalating the diplomatic row.
