Trump Hits Back at Meloni: 'No Thanks'

A public spat between Donald Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has escalated, with the former U.S. president criticizing Meloni's popularity and her alleged attempts to be photographed with him at the recent G7 summit.

Trump took to his Truth Social platform to assert that Meloni had been "extremely eager" for a photo, a description the Italian leader called "completely fabricated." He further suggested Meloni is unpopular in Italy, linking it to her past stance on Iran's nuclear program. Trump's post stated, "Now, after the US has militarily defeated Iran, she wants to be friends again to boost her numbers. No thanks."

Meloni responded sharply on social media, telling Trump to concentrate on his own popularity. She characterized his attacks as unprovoked and meaningless, while also noting that her relationship with the U.S. president had not improved her domestic standing. The exchange marks a significant public disagreement between leaders who previously appeared to have a cordial relationship.