Meloni Rejects Trump’s Claim She ‘Begged’ for G7 Photo, Deepening U.S.-Italy Rift

ROME: Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has strongly rejected claims by U.S. President Donald Trump that she “begged” to take a photograph with him during the recent G7 summit, describing the remarks as “completely made up” and expressing astonishment at his comments.

The dispute erupted after Trump, speaking in an interview with Italy’s La7 television channel, alleged that Meloni had sought a photograph with him at the summit and claimed he agreed only out of sympathy. Meloni categorically denied the account, saying the incident never occurred and criticizing what she described as a pattern of behavior in which Trump appears to show greater respect toward Western adversaries than long-standing allies.

The exchange marks a further deterioration in relations between two leaders who were once considered close political allies. Meloni was the only European leader to attend Trump’s 2025 inauguration and had long sought to maintain strong ties with Washington. However, relations have become increasingly strained over disagreements concerning U.S. policy toward Iran and Trump’s earlier criticism of Pope Leo, which Meloni publicly condemned as “unacceptable.”

The latest controversy comes just days after reports that Meloni and Trump held a meeting on the sidelines of the G7 summit aimed at easing diplomatic tensions and clarifying recent disputes. While officials had suggested the talks helped improve communication, Trump’s latest remarks have reignited friction between Rome and Washington.

Analysts say the public spat underscores the growing challenges facing transatlantic relations as differences emerge between European leaders and the White House on key foreign policy issues, including the Middle East and broader questions of Western unity.