The Italian government closed ranks around Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni after US President Donald Trump claimed that she “begged” him for a photograph during the G7 summit in France. The version was rejected by Italian officials, who described it as offensive.
“These are serious and offensive statements towards Meloni and the country,” said Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, who canceled his trip to the United States. The official was scheduled to attend a bilateral business forum and meet with authorities.
Meloni responded with a video on social networks. He stated that Trump’s statements were “completely invented” and that Italy does not beg or seek favors from other governments. “These types of comments do not strengthen relations between allies,” he said.
Tension between allies
The controversy arises in a context of differences between Rome and Washington over issues such as Ukraine, the Middle East, tariffs and US foreign policy. Trump had said in an interview that he agreed to take the photo because he felt sorry for Meloni, a version that the Italian government categorically denies.
Members of the cabinet expressed their support for the prime minister and defended the bilateral relationship. The episode reflects friction between two countries that, despite being allies, maintain divergent positions on several fronts.




