Meloni and Trump trade barbs on social media

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has publicly retorted to a verbal attack from former U.S. President Donald Trump on social media. The exchange began when Trump posted on Truth Social, alleging that Meloni "again and again" pestered him for a photo during a recent G7 summit, suggesting she sought his favor to boost her poll numbers.

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She wants to be friends again to get her numbers (in the polls) up.

Trump also reiterated his prior criticism of the Italian government's stance on allowing the use of American military bases in Italy during the conflict with Iran. In her response, posted on Instagram, Meloni directly addressed Trump, stating, "President Trump, these constant, unprovoked attacks are meaningless."

Meloni asserted her independence, adding, "My popularity is none of your business. I would suggest you focus on your own." She further commented that being his friend had "certainly not helped" her popularity. This exchange highlights a public disagreement between two prominent political figures, with Meloni pushing back against Trump's claims and perceived attempts to link her political standing to his influence.

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President Trump, these constant, unprovoked attacks are meaningless. My popularity is none of your business. I would suggest you focus on your own.

Recent polls indicate that Meloni's government, which took office in 2022, has seen a rise in support, reaching approximately 35 percent. Her party, Brothers of Italy, polls around 28 percent, while the opposition Democratic Party stands at about 22 percent. Meanwhile, Trump's popularity, according to a recent Reuters/Ipsos poll, has seen a one percentage point increase to 36 percent, though this remains near the lower levels of his political career, even as American dissatisfaction with the cost of living has decreased.

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It certainly has not helped my popularity.