The public feud between Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and U.S. President Donald Trump has escalated dramatically, with the two leaders exchanging increasingly personal attacks following this week’s G7 summit.
On Saturday, Trump renewed his criticism of Meloni, claiming the Italian leader was struggling politically at home and suggesting her popularity was declining.
“She is doing poorly in Italy with her level of popularity,” Trump said, while also accusing Meloni of failing to support U.S. efforts aimed at preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons.
The remarks sparked an immediate response from the Italian prime minister.
Meloni’s Sharp Response
Taking to Instagram, Meloni accused Trump of launching “constant, unprovoked attacks” against her and dismissed his comments as “senseless.”
“As for my popularity, being your friend has certainly not helped it, nor does it depend on my relationship with you,” Meloni wrote.
She then delivered her most pointed response yet:
“My popularity is none of your concern. I suggest you focus on yours.”
The exchange marks one of the most public disputes between Trump and a major European ally since his return to the White House.
The Photo Controversy
The latest war of words began after Trump claimed Meloni had repeatedly asked him for a photograph during the recent G7 summit in France.
In an interview with Italian television channel La7, Trump said:
“She begged me to take a photo with her; I felt sorry for her.”
He also added that Meloni was probably “happy” that he had spoken to her.
The comments appeared to catch Italian officials off guard.
Meloni quickly denied the claim, saying she was “frankly stunned” by Trump’s remarks and insisting the story was entirely fabricated.
“There is one thing he needs to remember: neither I nor Italy ever beg,” she said in a video message.
Disagreement Over Iran
The relationship appears to have deteriorated further due to differences over U.S. military actions involving Iran.
Trump accused Meloni of creating logistical problems by refusing to allow certain American military operations involving Iran to use Italian facilities.
Meloni rejected that criticism, stating that Italy’s military agreements with allies are governed by longstanding legal frameworks.
“The use of Italian bases is governed by agreements that we have always respected,” she said, adding that those agreements would not be violated while she remains prime minister.
Growing Strains Between Former Allies
The public clash is particularly striking given how close the two leaders once appeared.
Meloni was the only European leader to attend Trump’s inauguration in January 2025, and many observers viewed her as one of Trump’s strongest allies within Europe.
During the recent G7 summit, the pair were photographed speaking closely and appeared cordial in public. Meloni even told reporters afterward that there had been “no recriminations” between them.
However, the relationship has shown signs of strain throughout the year.
Earlier in 2026, Meloni publicly criticized Trump after he attacked Pope Leo XIV, calling the president’s comments about the pontiff “unacceptable.”
Now, what was once considered one of Trump’s strongest European partnerships appears to be unraveling in full public view.
Political Support Rallies Around Meloni
Trump’s comments have sparked rare unity across Italy’s political spectrum.
Opposition politicians and members of Meloni’s governing coalition alike have rallied behind the prime minister, arguing that foreign leaders should not interfere in Italy’s domestic politics.
As the dispute continues to unfold, the diplomatic fallout is already becoming visible. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani has reportedly canceled a planned trip to the United States next week.
What began as a disagreement over a photograph has now evolved into a broader clash over foreign policy, political respect, and the future of U.S.-Italy relations.
