Meloni tells Trump to focus on his own popularity amid spat

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has directly challenged U.S. President Donald Trump, telling him to focus on his own popularity rather than hers. The exchange began after Trump criticized Meloni, claiming her popularity was "in the basement" and that she had repeatedly asked for a photo with him at the G7 summit.

Meloni, responding on Instagram, dismissed Trump's attacks as "absurd" and "unjustified." She asserted that her popularity is tied to her ability to defend Italy's national interests, not her relationship with him. She specifically addressed Trump's claims about military bases, stating that their use is governed by agreements Italy respects and that she would not violate them as prime minister.

Trump had previously stated in an interview that he felt "pity" for Meloni and that she had "begged" for a photo. He also accused her of not allowing the use of Italian airstrips, causing logistical inconvenience, despite significant U.S. contributions to Italy's defense. He suggested Meloni sought to mend their relationship to improve her "numbers" after Iran's perceived military defeat by the U.S.

Meloni denied Trump's version of events, expressing astonishment at his "invented" claims. She emphasized that neither she nor Italy ever begs. While acknowledging the importance of Western unity, she stated she would not dwell on the matter further, deeming the public spat unworthy of their roles.

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Estos ataques constantes e injustificados son absurdos. En cuanto a mi popularidad, ser tu amiga no la ha ayudado en absoluto. Ni depende de mi relación contigo. Mi popularidad depende de mi capacidad para defender el interés nacional de Italia.