Donald Trump Fuels Conflict With Giorgia Meloni, Claims She 'Begged for a Photo'

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has escalated his public dispute with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, alleging that she "begged" him for a photograph during the recent G7 summit. Trump's comments, made in an interview with Italian broadcaster La7, suggested he only agreed to the photo out of pity and implied Meloni should be grateful for his attention. These remarks have drawn a sharp rebuke from Meloni and her government. Meloni took to social media to declare Trump's statements "completely made up" and expressed astonishment at his behavior. She asserted that neither she nor Italy "beg" for anything and criticized Trump for showing more leniency toward adversaries of the West than toward allies. The Italian Foreign Ministry confirmed that Minister Antonio Tajani has canceled a planned visit to the United States, scheduled for June 21-22. Tajani described Trump's comments as an "insult to all of Italy" and a significant affront to the nation's dignity. The dispute stems from earlier disagreements, including Meloni's defense of Pope Francis against Trump's criticism and disputes over Italy's support for U.S. military actions and basing rights.

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She begged me to take a picture with me; I felt sorry for her.