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Trump, Meloni trade barbs over G7 photo, Iran stance

From Daily Star · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Context piece
  • Donald Trump accused Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni of repeatedly seeking a photograph with him at the G7 summit.
  • Trump linked the dispute to Italy's stance on Iran and NATO, suggesting Meloni sought reconciliation for domestic political gain.
  • Meloni denied Trump's claims, calling them "made up," while Italy's Foreign Minister canceled a U.S. visit due to Trump's "grave and offensive" remarks.

A diplomatic spat has erupted between former U.S. President Donald Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, escalating personal tensions between the two leaders. Trump accused Meloni of "begging" for a photograph at the recent G7 summit in France, claiming he only agreed out of pity.

begged

— Donald TrumpTrump's initial claim about Meloni's request for a photograph at the G7 summit.

Meloni vehemently denied the accusation, labeling Trump's comments as "made up." However, Trump doubled down on his claims via Truth Social, asserting Meloni had persistently sought a photo during the summit. He further alleged that Meloni's attempts to mend relations with Washington were driven by domestic political considerations, particularly after Italy's perceived lack of support for U.S. actions against Iran.

felt sorry for her

— Donald TrumpTrump's stated reason for agreeing to take a photograph with Meloni.

Trump suggested Meloni's actions were aimed at boosting her "numbers" in Italy, where he claimed she was "doing poorly." He also reiterated his long-standing criticism of NATO allies, implying the U.S. bears an excessive financial burden for their defense. This public clash comes at a time when Trump's rhetoric has already unsettled European partners regarding the war in Ukraine.

made up

— Giorgia MeloniMeloni's response to Trump's accusation of begging for a photo.

The dispute prompted Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani to cancel a planned visit to the United States. Tajani described Trump's remarks toward Meloni as "grave and offensive" and stated they "offend the whole of Italy." Meloni herself expressed being "frankly stunned" by Trump's behavior towards allies and questioned why he showed more deference to Western adversaries than to partners.

over and over

— Donald TrumpTrump's assertion on Truth Social about Meloni's persistence in seeking a photograph.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Daily Star in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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