On June 21 local time, U.S. President Donald Trump posted a statement on social media, once again criticizing Italian Prime Minister Meloni.
Trump said that after the United States spending trillions of dollars on NATO, Italy and its prime minister refuse to consider intervening in “Iran and its nuclear threat”. “For decades, we have been protecting them, but when faced with challenges, they do not protect us or other countries around the world.”
This diplomatic incident between Italy and the United States began with Trump's remark about "Meroni begging for a photo."
From the 15th to the 17th of this month, the G7 summit was held in Everence-Les-Bains, France. In a recent interview with Italian media, Trump said that Italian Prime Minister Meloni "begged for a photo shoot" during the summit.
She probably had a great deal of happiness talking to me, and I didn't have to speak with her at all, ” Trump said. And he added, “She begged me for a photo. She really wanted a photo with me. I didn’t actually want to take it, but I felt sorry for her.”
On the 19th, Melon posted a video on social media in response to this matter, saying, “Donald Trump’s statements are completely fabricated. Frankly, I am shocked. I don’t understand why the President of the United States behaves like this towards his allies. Besides, this isn’t the first time such things have happened.”
"I can only say that what disappointed me is that he showed no comparable determination towards Western and American enemies, rather he was much more lenient towards them," Melo said, "One thing he should remember: Italy has never begged anyone for anything."
Trump posted an article on the 20th, reiterating his words from the interview. He also said that Meloni's support rate in Italy is very low. "Now, after defeating Iran in the United States, she wants to become friends again in order to increase her support rate. No, thank you!"
Merloni responded by saying, “President Trump, these ongoing unfounded attacks are meaningless. As for my popularity, being your friend certainly does not help it, and it does not depend on our relationship. My popularity depends on my ability to defend Italy’s national interests.”
"Anyway, you don't need to worry about my support rate. I suggest you focus more on your own support rate."
