The dispute between US President Donald Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni now seems to be turning into a diplomatic tussle. Following Trump’s controversial comments about Meloni, Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani has canceled a planned visit to the US.
This has brought a new sourness in the relations between the two countries, whereas earlier these leaders were considered close allies.
**Foreign Minister cancels America trip**
Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani announced Friday that he will not attend the Italy-US Business, Investment and Science Forum in Miami. He also canceled a meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Writing on social media platform
**Controversy over Trump’s statement**
The controversy began when Donald Trump claimed in an interview with Italian TV channel La7 that Prime Minister Meloni was eager to be photographed with him during the recent G7 summit in France. “She asked me to take a photo. She wanted a photo with me. I didn’t want to take a photo, but I felt sorry for her,” Trump said.
**Meloni denies Trump’s claim**
Following Trump’s statement, Georgia Meloni released a video on X calling these claims completely false. “Donald Trump’s statements are a complete fabrication. I am truly shocked. I do not understand why the President of the United States would behave like this with his own allies – and this is not the first time it has happened.” He added, “It is a shame that he is not as tough on America’s Western enemies and adversaries as he is on his allies.” Meloni said, “But remember one thing: Italy and I never grumble.” After this controversy, many senior leaders of Italy openly supported Prime Minister Meloni.
**Trump attacks again**
The controversy did not end here. Later, in an interview with NBC News, Trump again took aim at Maloney, linking to the issue of European support during the Iran conflict. Trump said, “I don’t consider her a supporter because when the issue of the Strait of Hormuz came up, she was not with the NATO group.”
**already strained relationship**
This controversy is being considered as another big blow to the relationship between Trump and Meloni. Previously, these two leaders were considered close allies in Western Europe; Meloni was one of the few prominent European leaders to attend Trump’s second inauguration.
**Differences increased regarding Iran**
However, differences between the two leaders over the Iran conflict have increased in recent months. Earlier this year, Meloni called Trump’s criticism of Pope Leo XIV, who opposed the Iran war, unacceptable. After this, Trump accused Italy of not supporting America enough during the Iran conflict.