Meloni Rejects Trump’s Remarks as ‘Offensive’, Says Italy Never Begs

US President’s Remarks Prompt Italy FM to Scrap Washington Trip

ROME: Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has strongly criticised US President Donald Trump over remarks suggesting she was eager to take a photograph with him during the G7 summit, describing his comments as "offensive" and "unacceptable."

Meloni said she was "stunned" by Trump's interview with Italian news outlet, in which he reportedly claimed that she "wanted a picture with me so badly" and that he agreed only because he "felt sorry for her." He also suggested that she should be grateful that he took the time to speak with her.

Rejecting the claims, Meloni said the comments were entirely fabricated, insisting: "Neither I nor Italy ever beg."

Writing on X, the Italian leader questioned why the US president would speak in such a manner about one of Washington's allies, adding that she wished he displayed the same firmness toward adversaries of the West and the United States.

Despite the latest exchange, Meloni had described the atmosphere at the G7 summit in Evian as constructive, saying there had been "no friction" between Trump and fellow leaders.

Meloni has long sought to position herself as a link between Europe and the Trump administration, but relations have become increasingly strained since the Middle East conflict intensified.

The latest dispute follows an earlier disagreement in April, when Meloni defended Pope Leo XIV after Trump criticised the pontiff's anti-war stance. Her response prompted Trump to question her courage in an interview with Italy's Corriere della Sera, where he also accused Rome of failing to adequately support the United States within NATO.

Trump has additionally threatened to reduce the US military presence in Italy, arguing that the country has not provided sufficient assistance during the Iran conflict.

The controversy also led Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani to cancel a planned visit to the United States scheduled for June 21-22, saying Trump's "grave and offensive" remarks had insulted not only Meloni but the entire Italian nation.

Although Meloni initially sought to maintain close ties with Trump, she later distanced herself from the US president over his criticism of Pope Leo and his response to the Iran war, drawing another sharp rebuke from Trump, who accused her of lacking courage.