Meloni seeks normal relations after US clash with Trump

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni called for normalization of relations with the US on Tuesday, following a public dispute with President Donald Trump. The disagreement erupted last week after Trump told an Italian television channel that Meloni had “begged” him for a photograph during the G7 summit in France.

Meloni rejected the claim, accusing Trump of fabricating it. The dispute escalated when Trump repeated the allegation on social media and accused Meloni of seeking to improve relations with Washington for domestic political gain after Italy declined to support US military action against Iran.

In response, Meloni issued one of her strongest rebukes of Trump to date, saying his “constant, unprovoked attacks are senseless” and insisting that her popularity depended on defending Italy’s national interest. She also defended Italy’s position regarding US military bases on Italian territory, stating they were governed by long-standing agreements.

Trump later intensified his criticism, claiming Meloni was struggling politically at home and linking her stance to Italy’s refusal to allow the use of Italian airfields during the conflict with Iran. His comments prompted a strong reaction in Rome, with Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani cancelling a planned visit to the US and other senior ministers warning that Trump’s remarks risked damaging bilateral relations.

Despite the sharp exchanges, Meloni’s latest remarks suggest Rome is seeking to de-escalate tensions and restore normal diplomatic engagement with Washington.