Published June 19th, 2026 - 12:19 GMT
Highlights
he dispute comes just days after the G7 summit in Évian-les-Bains, France, held from June 15 to 17, where both leaders were seen holding cordial discussions despite underlying policy differences.
ALBAWABA- Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has strongly rejected comments by US President Donald Trump, who claimed she had “begged” him for a photograph during the G7 summit in France, describing the remarks as “completely fabricated” and criticizing his treatment of close allies.In a video statement posted on social media on Thursday, Meloni dismissed Trump's account of their interaction and expressed disappointment over what she described as a recurring pattern in his approach toward partner nations.“Certain things deserve an immediate response,” Meloni said. “Donald Trump’s statements are completely fabricated. I am frankly appalled. I do not know why the President of the United States behaves this way toward his allies; after all, it is not the first time it has happened.”She added, “It is a pity that he does not show the same determination toward the enemies of the West and the enemies of the United States, and instead appears much more accommodating toward their leaders. But he must remember one thing: Italy and I never beg.”Italian PM Meloni to Trump:So, certain things deserve an immediate response. Donald Trump's statements are completely fabricated. I am frankly appalled. I don't know why the President of the United States behaves this way towards his allies; after all, it's not the first time… pic.twitter.com/6ahylULwmX— Open Source Intel (@Osint613) June 19, 2026 The comments were a direct response to remarks Trump made during an interview with Italian television channel La7, in which he claimed that Meloni had been eager to take a photograph with him during the recent G7 summit. “She begged me to take a picture with her. She wanted a picture with me so badly. I would not have taken it, but I felt sorry for her,” Trump said.The exchange marks the latest public disagreement between two leaders who were once viewed as close political allies. The dispute comes just days after the G7 summit in Évian-les-Bains, France, held from June 15 to 17, where both leaders were seen holding cordial discussions despite underlying policy differences.Relations between Rome and Washington have become increasingly strained in recent months over several issues, including the US-led military campaign involving Iran, Italy's limited support for some operations, and Meloni's previous defense of Pope Leo XIV following criticism from Trump.Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani also reacted to Trump's comments, reportedly canceling a planned visit to the United States in protest.The episode highlights broader tensions between the Trump administration and several European allies, as disagreements persist over foreign policy priorities, alliance management, and approaches to ongoing international crises.While both governments continue to emphasize the importance of transatlantic cooperation, the public exchange underscores the challenges facing the relationship as leaders navigate competing political agendas and diplomatic sensitivities.Meloni's response, in particular, signals her intention to publicly defend Italy's national dignity and assert Rome's independence within its partnership with Washington, even as both countries remain key allies within the Western alliance.