Trump and Meloni's public feud escalates on social media

The most heated political drama is currently unfolding on social media, with a daily new chapter in the public spat between Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and former ally Donald Trump. After a lull in their exchanges, Trump reignited the conflict on Sunday, accusing Meloni of not defending the U.S. on NATO and Iran. Meloni remained silent initially, but user analysis of her gestures at the G7 summit, which Trump claimed showed her "begging" him, fueled further speculation.

Trump's subsequent post on Truth Social, stating "Now that the USA has defeated Iran, she wants to be friends again, No thanks!!!" was met with Meloni's sharp retort: "These constant, unprovoked attacks are pointless." She added that the friendship had harmed her, and her popularity was none of his concern. This exchange resonated with many Italians, raising questions about the nature of the clash between Trump and his European counterpart, who has long sought to align with right-wing Republicans.

However, the conflict seems more like a "successful staging" than a genuine fallout. Meloni herself admits the friendship is detrimental, a claim supported by recent polls. An Ipsos survey indicates that nearly 80% of respondents view Trump negatively. Crucially, only 18% of voters from Meloni's Brothers of Italy party now favor a transatlantic rapprochement, with over 63% preferring closer ties with the EU. This shift is significant as Meloni aims for re-election in 2027.

The public dispute also occurs against a backdrop of shifting political dynamics. Meloni faces challenges following a failed judicial reform referendum and cooling enthusiasm from right-wing MAGA supporters due to global conflicts and trade disputes. Resurgent anti-American sentiments in Italy, present in both the left and right, are also a factor. Furthermore, Meloni faces internal right-wing opposition from the growing, Russia-friendly party led by ex-General Roberto Vannacci.

Beneath the fiery rhetoric lie real policy disagreements. The timing of this public spat, weeks before the July 7 NATO summit in Turkey, is notable. Italy's commitment to increasing military spending to 5% of GDP by 2035 remains uncertain, a key issue likely to be discussed at the summit. This suggests the public exchange may serve to distract from or frame these underlying tensions.