Trump claims Meloni's popularity is 'in the ground,' insists she repeatedly asked for photo

Former U.S. President Donald Trump reignited his public spat with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, asserting that her popularity in Italy has plummeted because she "turned her back" on the United States concerning Iran. Trump also reiterated his claim that Meloni persistently sought a photograph with him during the G7 summit in France.

Meloni had previously refuted Trump's assertions, expressing astonishment at what she called "invented" claims. She firmly stated, "Neither I nor Italy ever begged," in response to Trump's allegation that she had pleaded for a photo. Trump further criticized Meloni for not allowing U.S. aircraft to use Italian landing strips, despite what he described as substantial U.S. financial contributions to Italy's defense.

Trump suggested that Meloni's current attempts to mend relations are driven by her low approval ratings following what he termed Iran's "military defeat" by the U.S., adding a dismissive "No thanks!!!" to the prospect of renewed friendship. He had previously commented on television that he only took a photo with her out of "pity" because she had "begged" for it.

The escalating rhetoric prompted Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani to cancel a planned trip to the U.S. Tajani described Trump's remarks as "grave and offensive" and an insult to all of Italy. During the G7 summit, Meloni had downplayed differences with Trump, attributing any disagreements to their respective "strong characters" in defending national interests.

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Ahora, tras la derrota militar de Irán a manos de Estados Unidos, ella quiere volver a ser amiga para 'mejorar sus cifras'. ¡¡¡No, gracias!!!