Trump Launches Scathing Attack on Italian PM Meloni Over Iran War and Pope Comments
Former US President Donald Trump has publicly criticized Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, accusing her of lacking courage and damaging their relationship by not backing him in the ongoing Iran conflict and by condemning his recent remarks about Pope Francis. In a sharp rebuke, Trump expressed disappointment in Meloni, stating that their bond has significantly deteriorated.
Trump's Direct Criticism in Media Interviews
In an interview with the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, Trump did not hold back his feelings. "I thought she had courage, I was wrong," he declared, highlighting his disillusionment. When questioned about the current state of their relationship, Trump was unequivocal: "No, no. It has been negative. With anyone who denied us help in this Iranian situation, we no longer have the same relationship."
Trump further elaborated on the economic implications, noting, "They should know that Italy takes a lot of oil from the Strait..." suggesting potential repercussions for Italy's energy interests. In a separate conversation with Fox News, he reiterated his stance, emphasizing that "She's been negative" and that any nation refusing assistance in the Iran matter faces a strained rapport with him.
Meloni's Response and Political Calculations
Prime Minister Meloni has not yet responded directly to Trump's attacks, but political analysts suggest that distancing herself from the former president could be strategically advantageous. She is currently recovering from a decisive referendum defeat last month and aims to mitigate the impact of the deeply unpopular Iran war, which has led to higher energy prices globally.
Nathalie Tocci, a professor at Johns Hopkins SAIS Europe and director of the International Affairs Institute, provided insight to the Associated Press, stating, "Trump has become completely toxic across Europe, across much of the world, including Italy." She added, "I actually think this is a godsend for her," implying that the rift might bolster Meloni's domestic standing.
Background of the Strained Alliance
Meloni and Trump were once seen as natural allies, sharing nationalistic tendencies and hard-line stances on immigration. When Trump returned to office 15 months ago, it was expected that Meloni would leverage their strong ties. However, Italy has not been immune to Trump's tariffs, and some argue she has gained little from the relationship.
Trump confirmed the growing distance, telling Corriere della Sera that they have not spoken "in a long time." Tensions escalated after an uncomfortable Oval Office meeting a year ago, where Meloni avoided confronting Trump on tariffs, and further over the Iran war. Italy has refused to participate in the conflict and last month denied US bombers authorization to land at a key air base in Sicily.
Meloni's Direct Criticism of Trump
In a significant move, Meloni issued her most direct criticism of Trump yet this week, calling his attack on the Pope "unacceptable." She stated, "Well, I think what I said is what I think: that the statements, in particular about the pontiff, were unacceptable. I expressed, and I express, my solidarity with Pope Francis."
She further explained, "I'll tell you more — frankly, I wouldn't feel comfortable in a society where religious leaders do what political leaders say, let's say, not in this part of the world. That's why I disagreed, and I told you so." This stance marks a clear divergence from Trump's position.
Italian Government's Assurance on Bilateral Relations
Despite the public spat, Italian Cabinet Minister Adolfo Urso sought to downplay the impact on diplomatic ties. He assured that US-Italy relations remain solid, telling Radio 24, "Italy and the United States are allied countries and maintain their relationship and alliance within international institutions, starting obviously with the Atlantic Alliance."
Urso emphasized that the Church's moral teachings "cannot crack relationships consecrated in alliances signed a few decades ago," suggesting that the foundational alliance between the two nations will withstand current tensions.
The unfolding dispute highlights the complex dynamics of international politics, where personal relationships between leaders can influence broader geopolitical strategies, especially in contexts like the Iran war and transatlantic cooperation.
