In a post on social media, President Trump claimed PM Meloni repeatedly requested a photograph with him during the G7 summit in France, despite previously refusing to support the US position on preventing Iran from obtaining or developing a nuclear weapon.
President Trump also alleged that Italy denied the United States access to its landing strips and runways during the conflict. He extended his criticism to NATO allies, arguing that several members had failed to back Washington’s approach toward Iran.
The US president further claimed that the Italian PM’s position shifted following what he described as America’s military victory over Iran, suggesting that the Italian leader was seeking closer ties with Washington to boost her domestic popularity.
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The remarks mark the latest episode in an increasingly public dispute between President Trump and PM Meloni, after Italy pushed back against his claims that the prime minister had repeatedly sought a photo opportunity with him during the G7 gathering. Trump had made the comments in an interview broadcast Friday morning on the La7 network.
On Friday, June 19, Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani cancelled a planned visit to the United States, describing President Trump’s remarks as “serious and offensive” not only to the Prime Minister, but also to Italy as a whole.
PM Meloni herself had rejected the allegation, saying the US President’s account was entirely untrue. In a video message, she said she felt compelled to respond immediately and accused Trump of inventing the story.
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(Edited by : Asmita Pant)