The controversy erupted after Trump, in an interview with an Italian television channel, claimed that Meloni had repeatedly requested a photo opportunity with him during the G7 summit in France
ROME: (UrduPoint/Pakistan Point News-June 19th, 2026) Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has strongly criticized US President Donald Trump over remarks he made regarding their interaction during the recent G7 summit, calling his statements “completely fabricated” and offensive.
The controversy erupted after Trump, in an interview with an Italian television channel, claimed that Meloni had repeatedly requested a photo opportunity with him during the G7 summit in France.
Footage from the summit showed Meloni and Trump seated together on a sofa engaged in conversation. However, Trump dismissed the interaction, saying he spoke to her merely as a gesture of courtesy.
According to the Italian broadcaster, Trump said, “She is probably happy that I spoke to her. I didn’t need to talk to her.”
He further claimed that Meloni had requested a photograph with him, adding, “I could have refused, but I felt sorry for her.
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Meloni responded sharply to Trump’s remarks, rejecting his claims and expressing disappointment over his comments.
“Donald Trump’s statements are completely fabricated. I am genuinely surprised,” Meloni said in a strongly worded response.
“I do not understand why the President of the United States chooses to behave this way toward his allies, and this is not the first time,” she added.
Meloni also criticized Trump’s approach toward global rivals, saying it was regrettable that he appeared more lenient toward adversaries of the West and the United States.
“It is unfortunate that he does not show the same attitude toward the enemies of the West and America, and instead behaves more softly toward their leaders,” she said.
The Italian prime minister firmly asserted Italy’s dignity, saying, “One thing he should remember is that neither I nor Italy ever beg before anyone.”
According to international media reports, the anger within the Italian government became evident after Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani announced the cancellation of his scheduled visit to the United States next week.
In his statement, Tajani described Trump’s remarks as insulting not only to Meloni but to Italy as a whole.
“The offensive and serious words used by President Trump against Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni are an insult to all of Italy,” Tajani said.
