Trump claims Italian politician Meloni sought his photo opportunity

US President Donald Trump has made comments on social media criticizing Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, further escalating a dispute between the two leaders. The remarks were posted by Trump on Saturday and appear to contradict his earlier statement about the encounter at the recent G7 summit in France.

According to Trump’s post, Meloni had asked for a photograph “over and over” during the summit, which he claims was an attempt to bolster her domestic popularity. However, Meloni responded that she was “stunned” by the claim, describing it as “made-up”.

Meloni has since rejected Trump’s latest remarks, stating that they are “senseless” and that her popularity depends on her ability to defend Italy’s national interest. The Italian Prime Minister also accused Trump of showing more deference to adversaries than allies.

The dispute between Trump and Meloni has been ongoing since the conflict with Iran. In April, Trump criticized Meloni for defending Pope Leo XIV from his criticism of the pontiff’s antiwar views. Since then, relations between the two leaders have deteriorated.

Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani had previously cancelled a planned visit to the US over the row, describing Trump’s comments as “grave and offensive”. The incident has sparked anger in Rome, with Meloni accusing Trump of not showing sufficient determination against adversaries.

Meloni had cultivated close ties with Trump during the G7 summit, reassuring European allies wary of his second term. However, relations between the two leaders have continued to deteriorate despite her efforts to maintain a positive atmosphere.

Source: Al Jazeera