Summary
- ROME: Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has strongly rejected comments made by US President Donald Trump, calling his claim that she “begged” for a photograph with him at the G7 summit “completely false” and fabricated.
- The dispute stems from remarks Trump made to an Italian television channel, where he suggested that Meloni had desperately sought a photo opportunity with him during the G7 summit in Evian-les-Bains, France.
- She said she was “astonished” and stressed that the statements were “completely made up.” The Italian leader added that she does not understand why the former US president continues to speak in such a manner about allied nations.
ROME: Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has strongly rejected comments made by US President Donald Trump, calling his claim that she “begged” for a photograph with him at the G7 summit “completely false” and fabricated.
The dispute stems from remarks Trump made to an Italian television channel, where he suggested that Meloni had desperately sought a photo opportunity with him during the G7 summit in Evian-les-Bains, France. He further said he “felt sorry for her” and agreed to take the picture.
Meloni responded sharply, expressing shock over Trump’s comments and denying any such behaviour. She said she was “astonished” and stressed that the statements were “completely made up.” The Italian leader added that she does not understand why the former US president continues to speak in such a manner about allied nations.
She further said that neither she nor Italy would ever “beg” for anything, rejecting the portrayal of her conduct at the summit. Meloni also criticised Trump’s attitude toward long-standing allies, suggesting it contrasts with his approach toward countries considered adversaries of the West.
The controversy marks a noticeable strain in relations between the two leaders, who had previously been seen as politically aligned. Their interaction at the G7 summit had appeared cordial, with video footage showing them engaged in conversation.
However, Trump’s comments have now triggered diplomatic tension. In response, Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani cancelled an upcoming visit to the United States and condemned the remarks as offensive to the country.
The incident comes amid already fluctuating relations between the two sides, following previous disagreements over international conflicts and diplomatic positions.
Italian officials say the remarks have caused widespread anger in Rome, further complicating ties between Washington and one of its key European allies.
We welcome your contributions! Submit your blogs, opinion pieces, press releases, news story pitches, and news features to [email protected] and [email protected]
