Trump calls for 'restraining order' against Italy's Meloni

Former U.S. President Donald Trump ignited a diplomatic spat by posting a photo with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on his social media platform, accompanied by the message, "We need a restraining order."

The controversial post appeared before the NATO summit in Ankara, where both leaders were scheduled to attend. Trump alleged that Meloni "asked again and again for a photo" and that he eventually agreed "out of pity." This public commentary has been largely ignored by the Italian government, according to EFE.

The photograph, posted on Truth Social on July 5, 2026, showed Meloni looking at Trump during the G7 summit in Évian-les-Bains, France. Relations between the two leaders have reportedly deteriorated since that meeting. Italian government sources indicated that there would be no response to what they consider a baseless personal attack, opting instead for a strategy of ignoring Trump's comments.

This public exchange follows a period of tension. Meloni had previously denied Trump's claims that she insisted on taking a photo, calling them "invented" and expressing surprise. Trump further criticized Meloni, suggesting her popularity in Italy was declining due to her perceived lack of support for the United States. Meloni, in turn, advised Trump to focus on his own popularity and asserted her commitment to protecting Italy's national interests.

Despite these public disagreements, Italy has sought to maintain standard diplomatic relations with the current U.S. administration. Italian ministers recently attended the Independence Day reception at the U.S. Embassy in Rome, signaling an effort to preserve official ties.

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