Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has accused President Donald Trump of fabricating a story that she begged for a photo at the G7 summit. She issued a public rebuke in a video posted on X on Friday. Italy's foreign minister also canceled a planned trip to the United States.
Meloni said Trump's statements were completely fabricated and expressed surprise at his behavior toward allies. She noted that Italy and she do not beg, while criticizing his approach to adversaries.
The comments stem from an interview Trump gave to an Italian journalist after the three-day G7 summit in Evian, France. According to a dubbed translation aired by La7, Trump claimed Meloni was happy he spoke to her and begged for their picture together.
Italy's Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani called the alleged remarks serious and offensive. He canceled his weekend visit to the United States in response.
Politicians across Italy rallied around Meloni. Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini said whoever attacks her attacks all of them. Even opponent Matteo Renzi described the statements as horrifying.
