Meloni Rebukes Trump’s Critique of Her Popularity amid Diplomatic Row

In a swift Instagram response, Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said former U.S. President Donald Trump’s repeated attacks on her popularity were senseless and that her own “popularity is none of his concern.” She urged the former president to focus on his own popularity instead.

Trump had complained that Meloni’s standing in Italy was “poor” and claimed that she repeatedly begged him for a photo during the G7 summit. He also accused Italy of creating a “great logistical inconvenience” by refusing U.S. use of its air facilities for operations against Iran.

Meloni responded that the use of Italian bases is governed by agreements that Italy upholds and that she would not alter that stance while in office. She rejected Trump’s comment and said that neither she nor Italy ever begged for favors.

The skirmish is part of a growing rift after Trump’s military action against Iran this year and broader tensions over U.S. foreign policy. Her foreign minister, Antonio Tajani, has postponed a trip to the U.S. over the dispute.

Meloni’s retort drew support from across her political coalition, underscoring the sharp divide between the two leaders as they continue to clash on various global issues.