Meloni Fires Back at Trump Over ‘Made‑Up’ Photo Claim

Fri Jun 19 2026 19:24:57 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Italian prime minister Giorgia Meloni angrily denies Trump’s claim she begged for a photo at the G7 summit. The incident sparks a tense US‑Italy spat after a wave of controversial remarks from the former president.

During the G7 summit in Evian, Trump told Italian TV that Meloni had begged him for a photo, a claim she said is entirely false. The Italian leader reacted on social media with outrage, calling the US president’s words “unacceptable.” The exchange highlights how the close US‑Italy relationship has cooled after Trump’s remarks about Iran and other diplomatic friction. Trump’s comments followed a video interview in which he described the meeting as “a small sofa” conversation. Meloni’s response—both on Instagram and in press briefings—underscores her commitment to Italy’s dignity and its diplomatic stance.

Meloni Fires Back at Trump Over ‘Made‑Up’ Photo Claim

Italian leader reacts to U.S. president’s puzzling comment

Meloni’s Fury: After the G7 summit, former U.S. president Donald Trump claimed he had been begged by Italian prime minister Giorgia Meloni for a photo. In a shock response on Instagram and press, Meloni called the story "made‑up" and warned that the U.S. president was acting "unacceptably" toward allies.

The exchange is a sharp break from earlier months of what seemed like closer ties. Trump’s comments followed his criticism of Italy’s stance on the Iran conflict—as well as a video interview that painted the meet‑up as a “small sofa” chat. Meloni’s retort came amid a backdrop of Trump’s repeated remarks that were seen as disrespectful to international leaders because of the way he had once praised him for attempting to incite an arrest in Washington.

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Meloni’s claim that “neither I, nor Italy, ever begged” is not only a defense but a statement of national dignity. She made it clear that what matters is the country’s determination against foreign enemies and that the president’s conduct should align with the same tough stance.

The incident has stirred reactions across Italy. From senators to party leaders, many conservatives and opposition figures are rallying to support Meloni, urging the U.S. to respect diplomatic norms while pointing out Italy’s role in the broader global arena.