Meloni responds to Trump: ‘My popularity is not your concern; focus on your own’
Meloni advises Trump to concentrate on his popularity following a heightened disagreement regarding Iran, military bases, and his comments.
Italy’s Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, has issued a strong criticism of US President Donald Trump as a growing public disagreement between the two leaders intensified regarding Iran, military collaboration, and personal comments.
The most recent exchange started when Trump raised questions about Meloni’s position domestically and reiterated his assertion that she had consistently requested a photograph with him.
On Saturday, Trump remarked that the Italian prime minister was “doing poorly in Italy with her level of popularity.” He further charged her with opposing US initiatives aimed at stopping Iran from acquiring or developing a nuclear weapon.
In an Instagram post, Meloni rejected what she referred to as Trump’s “constant, unprovoked attacks,” labeling them as “senseless.”
“Regarding my popularity, having you as a friend has definitely detracted from it, and my relationship with you does not influence it,” Meloni stated.
My popularity is not your business. I recommend you concentrate on your own,” she added.
Previously, Trump had also claimed that Meloni was responsible for creating “a major logistical inconvenience” by blocking the United States from utilizing Italian air facilities for military operations against Iran.
Nevertheless, the Italian leader stood by her government’s stance, asserting that the utilization of Italian bases “is governed by agreements that we have always honored, and that cannot be breached as long as I hold the position of prime minister.”
The exchange of remarks ensued after comments made by Trump during a phone interview with Italy’s La7 television channel following the recent G7 Summit in France.
Trump claimed, “She pleaded with me to photograph her; I felt pity for her.”
“She’s likely pleased that I reached out to her,” he added.
In an Instagram video posted on Friday, Meloni expressed that she was “frankly stunned” by the remarks.
“I’m unsure why the US president acts this way towards allies,” she remarked.
“But there is one thing he must keep in mind: neither I nor Italy ever beg,” she added.
The dispute has revealed an increasing tension in the relationship between Washington and Rome following Trump’s military action against Iran earlier this year.
The fallout has already resulted in diplomatic repercussions, as Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani has cancelled a scheduled trip to the United States next week.
The public clash arises even though the pair had previously maintained a strong political relationship. Trump’s inauguration in January 2025 saw Meloni as the only European leader present, and the two engaged in conversation during the G7 summit.
Following the meeting, Meloni informed reporters that there were “no recriminations” and that their relationship had not changed.
The most recent disagreement is not the first occurrence between the leaders. Earlier this year, Trump criticized Pope Leo XIV, labeling him as “WEAK on Crime and terrible for Foreign Policy” before later stating that he was “not a big fan.”
Meloni denounced those remarks at the time, labeling them as “unacceptable.”
