Meloni hits back at Trump over 'constant, unprovoked attacks'

Meloni rejects 'constant, unprovoked attacks'

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Saturday dismissed fresh criticism from US President Donald Trump regarding Italy's stance on the Iran war and the use of American military facilities on Italian soil, rejecting what she called personal attacks on her leadership and popularity. "President Trump, these constant, unprovoked attacks are senseless," Meloni said on Instagram, adding that her standing with voters depends solely on her defense of national interests. "My popularity depends on my ability to defend Italy's national interest, and that is exactly what I have always done," she stated.

Trump posted the remarks on his Truth Social platform following the recent G7 summit in France, accusing Meloni of repeatedly seeking a photo opportunity with him while allegedly refusing American requests to support efforts preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons. The US president also criticized Rome for denying Washington access to Italian landing strips and runways, describing the restriction as "a great logistical inconvenience," and noted that the United States provides substantial security contributions to Italy through NATO.

'Italy remains a sovereign nation'

Meloni defended her government's position regarding the military installations, stating that operations at US bases are governed by bilateral agreements that must be respected. "Their use is governed by agreements that we have always respected, and that cannot be violated as long as I am Prime Minister," she said, emphasizing that "Italy remains a sovereign nation." She also turned the criticism back toward Washington, adding: "In any case, my popularity is none of your concern. I suggest you focus on yours."

The exchange comes amid Trump's claims that the United States has "defeated Iran militarily," an assertion the US president linked to Meloni's domestic political calculations and her alleged desire to restore ties with Washington. Trump argued that his administration contributes heavily to Italian security while facing operational obstacles from Rome during ongoing regional tensions.