Rome: Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni hit back at U.S. President Donald Trump via Instagram, urging him to "focus on his own popularity," in response to Trump's claim that she had begged for a photo with him during the G7 summit in France to boost her declining domestic popularity.
According to Thai News Agency, the conflict between the two leaders arose after Trump gave an interview to Italy's La7 television station, claiming that Meloni "repeatedly begged to take a photo with him until he felt sorry for her." He also stated on the Truth Social platform that she wanted to create an image of friendliness towards the US to boost her declining domestic popularity. This prompted Meloni to post a message in English on Instagram stating that Trump fabricated the entire story and that his baseless and relentless attacks were pointless. She said her popularity was not something Trump needed to worry about and suggested he focus on his own. She added that being friends with Trump didn't help anything.
The incident has also had repercussions on diplomatic relations between the two countries. Most recently, Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Taiani announced the immediate cancellation of his official visit to the United States, stating that Trump's remarks were an insult to the entire Italian nation. Reports indicate that several Italian ministers are preparing to boycott the July 4th Independence Day celebrations to be held at the U.S. Embassy in Rome. Meloni has received unanimous support from all Italian politicians, with Matteo Salvini, a leader of the ruling coalition, stating, "Anyone who attacks Giorgia is attacking all of us."
This conflict is not solely due to the photograph, but reflects an even clearer rift that arose earlier when Trump harshly criticized Italy for refusing to allow the US military to use Italian air bases for military operations in Iran. Meloni strongly retorted that the use of the bases must be in accordance with mutual agreements that Italy has always respected, and that as long as she is Prime Minister, Italy will remain a sovereign country. Meloni also criticized Trump for previously attacking Pope Leo XIV for condoning crimes and having poor foreign policy, as the Pope opposes war.
According to the latest opinion polls, Meloni's government has seen its approval rating climb to around 35 percent, while her Brothers of Italy party remains in first place with 28 percent.