Meloni Denounces Trump’s Claim as Fake After G7 Photo Comment

A diplomatic row has erupted between Rome and Washington after U.S. President Donald Trump said Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni had “begged” to take a photo with him at the G7 summit. In an interview Friday with Italy’s Channel 7, Meloni rejected the remark in angry terms, saying Trump’s statements were “completely fabricated” and adding, “I am shocked and outraged.” She also said, “Italy and I never beg.”

The dispute quickly moved beyond a personal exchange. Italy’s foreign minister canceled a planned trip to the United States in response to the episode, underscoring the strain between the two governments. Meloni said she was troubled by Trump’s conduct and asked why he would act that way toward long-standing U.S. allies, noting that this was not the first time such an incident had occurred.

Meloni also broadened her criticism to Trump’s overall approach, saying he treats enemies of the West and the United States with more respect than allies. In her words, he is “far more flexible” toward those adversaries, while taking a more aggressive line with friendly countries like Italy.