Italy’s Meloni Tells Trump to Focus on His Own Popularity as Diplomatic Row Escalates

ROME — Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has sharply rebuked U.S. President Donald Trump, telling him to focus on his own approval ratings rather than making claims about her, as a public dispute between the two leaders intensifies following a G7 summit controversy.

The spat erupted after Trump alleged that Meloni had “begged” him for a photograph during the recent G7 summit in France and suggested she was trying to bolster her domestic popularity. Meloni firmly rejected the accusation, calling it false and expressing shock at the remarks.

“I am frankly astonished,” Meloni said in a social media response, insisting that she and Italy do not “beg” anyone and accusing Trump of spreading misleading claims.

Trump repeated his assertion in media comments and on social platforms, further escalating tensions and prompting a strong reaction from Italian officials. Rome has described the remarks as offensive and damaging to diplomatic relations between the two allies.

The dispute has already had political consequences, including the cancellation of a planned visit to the United States by Italy’s foreign minister, while senior Italian figures have publicly defended Meloni and criticized Trump’s statements.

Analysts say the episode reflects a broader strain in U.S.-Italy relations, which have worsened in recent months amid disagreements over Middle East policy and NATO cooperation, despite earlier close ties between the two leaders.

Meloni, meanwhile, has sought to shift the focus back to domestic and European priorities, reinforcing her position that Italy’s political standing is not dependent on personal exchanges with foreign leaders.

The controversy marks a notable downturn in what was once viewed as a strong personal rapport between Trump and Meloni, now increasingly defined by public criticism and diplomatic friction.