U.S. President Trump claimed that Italian Prime Minister Meloni “begged” him for a photo together during the recently concluded G7 summit, a remark that not only prompted Meloni herself to issue a denial but also drew unified condemnation from the Italian government, which harshly criticized Trump.
Trump made the claim in an interview with Italy’s La7 TV aired on the 19th, stating that Meloni “begged” him for a photo. When the reporter asked about Ukraine, Trump took the initiative to mention Meloni, and the topic then turned to their meeting at the G7 summit in France. Although footage at the scene showed the two talking multiple times and even sitting alone together on a sofa, according to La7 TV’s account, Trump claimed Meloni “begged” him for a photo, and while he was under no obligation to agree, he felt sorry for her and reluctantly agreed.
● Meloni: Italy and I will never beg
Meloni responded on Instagram with a video, saying, “Trump's comments are completely fabricated. To be honest, I am shocked. I don’t know why the President of the United States would behave like this towards a Western ally. I feel very sorry.” She concluded by emphasizing, “Italy and I have never begged.”
Meloni stressed that certain matters must be addressed immediately, “I don’t know why the President of the United States would treat his ally this way. After all, this isn’t the first time.”
● Italian Foreign Minister Cancels U.S. Trip
Italian Foreign Minister Tajani subsequently cancelled his planned trip this week to Miami for a business and science forum, harshly criticizing Trump’s remarks as causing “serious and offensive harm” to both Meloni and the whole of Italy.
Analysts pointed out that Trump’s arrogant statements highlight that what was once considered Europe’s closest allied relationship, between him and Meloni, has now completely fallen apart. The two have repeatedly clashed over the Iran war and U.S. tariffs on the EU. In April this year, Meloni refused to support Trump’s war against Iran and also defended Pope Leo XIV when Trump attacked the Pope, resulting in criticism from Trump.