Italian politicians unite to condemn Trump's 'begged for photo' claim about Meloni

Italian political leaders united in condemning U.S. President Donald Trump after he alleged that Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni pleaded with him for a photograph during the recent G7 summit. Meloni herself dismissed Trump's account as a "fabrication."

Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani announced he would cancel his planned visit to Miami on June 21-22, citing Trump's "grave and offensive words towards Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni," which he stated "offend all of Italy."

Giovanbattista Fazzolari, undersecretary to the Prime Minister's office, characterized Trump's remarks as the "latest episode of attacks and insults directed at European leaders." He questioned whether Trump's actions stemmed from intentional malice or incompetence, arguing that such behavior damages the historic U.S.-Europe relationship.

Defense Minister Guido Crosetto expressed disbelief that Meloni would ever ask anyone for a photo, even under duress. He suggested Trump's comments might be a response to Meloni prioritizing Italy's, Europe's, and the West's interests over Trump's previous statements.

Carlo Calenda, leader of the Azione party, labeled Trump a "compulsive liar and a comic book bully." He asserted that while he doesn't believe Meloni begged for anything, such insults are unacceptable and attack the nation's honor.

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Senator Filippo Sensi of the opposition Democratic Party offered solidarity with Meloni, calling Trump's words "indescribable."

Former Prime Minister and M5S leader Giuseppe Conte stated that "Italy does not deserve to be humiliated so flagrantly." He emphasized that it is unacceptable for an ally to speak so disrespectfully of Italian leaders.

Maurizio Lupi, president of the governing Noi Moderati party, deemed Trump's words "unjustified and unacceptable," adding that anyone familiar with Meloni knows she would never beg.

The controversy stems from a transcript of an interview with Trump aired by Italian television channel "La 7." In it, Trump claimed Meloni "begged me for a photo" and that he only agreed out of pity. Meloni responded on social media, calling the account an "invention."

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No puedo imaginar a Giorgia Meloni pidiéndole una fotografía a nadie, ni siquiera bajo amenaza.