Trump insists: 'Meloni did not defend us'. The premier's silence

Donald Trump has renewed his criticism of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, asserting that Italy, despite receiving billions in NATO funding, is unwilling to act against Iran's nuclear threat. Trump posted on social media that after decades of U.S. defense, Italy is absent when needed for global security.

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After having spent billions of dollars for NATO, Italy and its prime minister do not even seem willing to take part in the action against Iran and its serious nuclear threat. For decades we have defended them, but when it comes time to defend us and the rest of the world, they are not there. This is not good.

Meloni's office has decided to cease responding to Trump's accusations, a shift from earlier firm replies. This strategy aims to preserve the crucial relationship with the United States. Palazzo Chigi, the prime minister's office, remains silent, focusing on maintaining diplomatic ties.

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I needed a bit of healthy national pride.

Despite the public spat, Meloni expressed a need for "healthy national pride" during a visit to a rally in Gemona del Friuli. She reiterated her commitment to defending Italian national interests, a stance she previously took directly with the U.S. president. However, she also called for de-escalation to safeguard the historical Italy-U.S. relationship.

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We continue to work with them, the open dossiers will continue to move forward.

To reinforce this message, the Italian government is planning to celebrate U.S. Independence Day at Villa Taverna, the U.S. ambassador's residence in Rome. This event, with the executive branch present, aims to send an unequivocal signal that the relationship with the United States is not in question. Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, who initially planned to skip the event due to a busy schedule, will attend to emphasize the "solid relations" with the U.S. and that ongoing collaborations will continue.

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Export data show the U.S.'s interest in Italy.