Italy's Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, has strongly denied claims made by former US President Donald Trump that she begged him for a photo during the G7 summit in Évian, France. In a video posted on Instagram, Meloni stated that Trump's assertions were "totally invented" and expressed shock at his behavior.
Trump's Remarks Spark Fury
During an interview with Italy's La7 network, Trump claimed that Meloni had pleaded with him to take a picture together. He said, "She's probably happy I talked to her. I didn't have to talk to her. She begged me to take a picture with her. She wanted a picture with me so badly. I wouldn't have taken it, but I felt sorry for her." These comments provoked widespread outrage in Italy, with political figures from across the spectrum expressing solidarity with Meloni.
Meloni's Response
In her Instagram response, Meloni emphasized that neither she nor Italy would ever beg. She said, "Donald Trump's declarations are totally invented. Frankly, I am stunned. I don't know why the US president behaves this way towards his allies. It's not the first time it's happened, I can only say it's unfortunate he doesn't show the same determination towards the west's enemies."
Diplomatic Fallout
The incident has led to concrete diplomatic repercussions. Italy's Foreign Minister, Antonio Tajani, announced the cancellation of a planned trip to the US next week. He stated on X, "The serious and offensive words of President Trump towards Prime Minister Giorgia offend the whole of Italy." Former Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte also condemned the remarks, saying Italy does not deserve such humiliation.
Background of Strained Relations
Meloni and Trump had previously enjoyed cordial relations, rooted in shared nationalist rhetoric. Meloni was the only European leader invited to Trump's inauguration. However, tensions escalated in April over Italy's refusal to support the US-Israeli war in Iran and Trump's criticism of Pope Leo. Despite attempts to mend ties at the G7, this latest incident has further damaged the relationship.
Giovanbattista Fazzolari, undersecretary to the prime minister's office, criticized Trump's outbursts, stating, "It is unclear whether out of intent or ineptitude he is wrecking the historic relations between the United States and Europe. With his inappropriate outbursts, he has managed to make the US unpopular across the entire European continent, damaging not only Europe but above all the US."
