Trump says relationship with Italy's Meloni has 'gotten a little bad'

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly criticized Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, stating their relationship has soured due to her refusal to assist in the conflict with Iran. Speaking to reporters during a NATO summit, Trump described Meloni as a "good person" but asserted that she made a mistake by not engaging in the conflict, which has negatively impacted their relationship.

This latest exchange marks a continuation of recent diplomatic friction between the two leaders. Just hours prior, the Italian government had indicated it would no longer respond to Trump's remarks. Meloni, once considered a close ally of Trump in Europe, saw their relationship fracture last month after Trump claimed she had "begged" him for a photo at a G7 summit in France. Meloni vehemently denied this, calling it a fabrication.

“

Our relationship has gotten a little bad, because she refused to help us (on Iran), she refused to get involved, so that makes my relationship with her a little bit bad.

The disagreements appear to stem from differing stances on the Iran conflict and related geopolitical issues. Earlier this year, Italy declined a U.S. request for its military aircraft to use a Sicilian air base for operations against Iran, citing a lack of prior authorization from the Italian government. Further complicating matters, Meloni defended Pope Francis after Trump criticized his remarks on the war, which reportedly angered Trump. Trump also criticized Meloni for refusing to assist in reopening the Strait of Hormuz.

“

But I like her, I actually think she’s a good person, but I think she made a mistake.