Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni was initially seen as Europe’s bridge to US President Donald Trump; however, this connection appears to be deteriorating. Following his criticism of Pope Leo XIV, Trump expressed frustration towards Meloni, a former ally, for labelling his remarks as “unacceptable” and for failing to support the US-Israel war against Iran.
Trump has demonstrated difficulty recognising that he is not the sole authority in global affairs and that presidents and prime ministers must prioritise their own nations’ interests. His response to criticism often lacks the diplomatic finesse expected from a leader of his level. This controversial figure, currently serving his second term as President of the United States, has resorted to derogatory remarks against whoever dares to challenge his actions, including the recent attack on Pope Leo XIV, the leader of the Roman Catholic Church.
On 14 April, a furious Trump criticised Meloni after she openly defended the Pope and questioned his conduct. In an interview with Corriere della Sera, he expressed disappointment in Meloni’s courage. He suggested that she had failed to support Washington, representing a significant public reprimand of one of his key European allies.
While Meloni had previously been a strong supporter of Trump, she began to distance herself after he initiated military action in Iran in February. On Monday, she condemned his verbal assault on the Pope as “unacceptable.”
In his response to Corriere della Sera, Trump indicated that Meloni was “very different from what I thought,” expressing shock at her refusal to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has blocked.
Although Meloni has not directly responded to Trump’s rebukes, this situation may ultimately benefit her, as she seeks to recover from a significant defeat in a recent referendum while addressing the challenges posed by the ongoing Iran conflict, including rising energy costs.
Nathalie Tocci, a professor at Johns Hopkins SAIS Europe and director of the International Affairs Institute, told The Associated Press: “I believe this could be advantageous for her. Trump has become a contentious figure across Europe and much of the world, including Italy.”
On Wednesday, Trump reiterated that their relationship had become strained, stating, “She’s been negative. Anyone who declined to support us in the Iran situation cannot expect the same level of relationship.”
Notably, Trump’s criticism has surprisingly united various Italian political factions in support of Meloni. Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, leader of the Forza Italia party and a coalition partner in Meloni’s government, commended her for denouncing Trump’s remarks about the Pope. “We are, and will continue to be, sincere supporters of Western unity and steadfast allies of the United States, but that unity must be rooted in loyalty, respect, and mutual transparency,” Tajani stated.
Elly Schlein, the National Secretary of the Democratic Party, Italy’s largest opposition party, firmly condemned Trump’s attacks on Meloni. “Italy is a free and sovereign nation. Our Constitution is unequivocal—Italy repudiates war. No foreign head of state has the authority to attack, threaten, or disrespect our country or government. Although we may differ in political opinion, we all share the identity of Italian citizens and MPs. We call for a collective condemnation of these attacks and threats.”
This article used information from The Associated Press.
