US President Donald Trump has intensified his public dispute with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni by posting an edited image on his Truth Social platform suggesting she was overly interested in him.
In the post, Trump shared the altered image with the caption, “Restraining order needed,” ahead of the upcoming NATO summit in Türkiye, where the two leaders are expected to meet alongside other alliance members.
The latest exchange follows Trump's claim that Meloni repeatedly asked to take photographs with him during the recent G7 Summit. Trump alleged that the Italian prime minister requested a picture with him “over and over.”
Meloni strongly denied the accusation, calling it “completely fabricated.”
“Italy and I never beg,” she said in an interview with Italy’s Rete 4 television, adding that strong relations between allies are built on honesty and mutual respect.
“I believe the West is stronger united, and Italy is stronger within a united West,” Meloni said, while stressing that she remains frank in her dealings with international partners.
The dispute has also had diplomatic repercussions, with Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani reportedly cancelling a planned visit to Washington.
According to media reports, tensions between Trump and Meloni have increased in recent weeks, including over Italy’s reluctance to support US efforts against Iran.
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